Discovering the Roots of Christianity`` with Ayala Travel & Tours: Bible history and Israel – 15 days Journey
Day 1: Unearthing the Philistine Cities
We will discover the ancient cities of Ashdod, Ashqelon, Tel Gat and Lakhish, and explore the history of the Philistines and the Assyrian king Sennacherib.
Day 2: Desert Wonders
We will explore the hidden treasures of Sede Boker, Shivta, Avedat, Mitzpe Ramon, Dimona and Arad. We will delve into the Nabatean, Roman and Byzantine settlements and the natural splendor of the desert.
Day 3: Exploring the Dead Sea
Discover the history of the Jewish rebels and the famous Dead Sea Scrolls as we visit Masada, the Dead Sea, Ein Gedi, Qumran and Jerusalem.
Day 4: Jerusalem's Ancient Heart
We will delve into the rich history and cultural significance of the Old City of Jerusalem. We will start in the Jewish Quarter, the Western Wall, and the ancient synagogues. We will then embark on a journey through the Via Dolorosa, and explore the Christian Quarter and the Armenian Quarter, where we will learn about the history of the Armenian community in Jerusalem.
Day 5: Discovering Modern Jerusalem
We will feel modern Jerusalem through visits to the Holyland Hotel, where you can see a replica of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus. We will also visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and the Israel Museum, where you can see the Dead Sea Scrolls. We will explore the vibrant neighborhood of Ein Karem, Hebrew University and the Knesset, the parliamentary seat of government in Israel.
Day 6: Uncovering the History of Mount Zion
We will visit the Upper Room, believed to be the location of the Last Supper. We'll explore the Church of the Dormition, dedicated to the falling asleep of the Virgin Mary, and Saint Peter in Gallicantu. We'll also have the opportunity to visit the Tomb of King David, believed to be the final resting place of the biblical king, and learn about the significance of these sites in Christian history.
Day 7: Exploring Bethlehem and Environs
We will visit Bethlehem, Mar Saba, Hebron, Gush Etzion, and Mount Gilo to learn about the history of the area and its significance in Christianity.
Day 8: Free Day
Enjoy a free day to explore interesting locations or indulge in some leisure activities. We will be happy to assist with any recommendations or reservations.
Day 9: A Tour of Jerusalem and Jericho
We will have a visit to the Garden Tomb, a place believed to be the site of Jesus' burial and resurrection. We will explore Solomon's Quarries and Bethany, home to the Church of Saint Lazarus. We will also visit The Good Samaritan inn, a biblical site where Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan. We will also explore Wadi Kelt and visit the Greek monastery of Saint George and Herod's winter palace in Jericho.
Day 10: Visiting the Ancient Lands of Judaea and Samaria
We will visit the site of Nebi Samwil, the traditional tomb of Prophet Samuel. We will explore the ancient excavation sites of Megiddo, which date back to 4,000 to 400 B.C.E. We will also visit Beit She`arim, home to the Second century Sanhedrin and burial caves.
Day 11: Discovering the Coastal Towns and Villages
We will visit some of Israel's most beautiful coastal towns and villages. We will stop in the city of Haifa, where we will visit the stunning Baha'i Temple, a World Center of the Baha'i faith, and the Technion- Israel Institute of Technology. We will head to Acre and the Mosque of EL Jesaar. We will then visit the early Christian church in Shave Ziyon and the Montfort Crusader castle in Kibbutz Yehiam. We will explore the Christian and Druze village of Rama, the city of Meron, home to famous Torah scholars, the ancient synagogue in Baram, and Safed, the capital of Cabalistic mysticism.
Day 12: Golan Heights
We will delve into the natural beauty of Golan Heights. We will visit Hazor, an important Israelite and Canaanite city, the collective settlement of Ayelet Hashahar, and the spring source of the Jordan River in Dan. We will see the ancient ruins of Caesarea Philippi and the Nimrod Castle. On Passover time, We will take a break and enjoy the music festival in Kibbutz Ein Gev.
Day 13: Welcome to the Sea of Galilee
Explore the beautiful Sea of Galilee region, where many important events in Jesus' life took place. We will visit Tiberias, a city located on the shores of the sea, and Magdala, the home of Mary Magdalene. Visit the Church of the Multiplication in Tabgha, and see the ancient synagogue in Capernaum, where Jesus is believed to have lived. Climb to the top of the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount, and visit the ancient ruins of Korazim and the Hexagonal Pools of Breichat HaMeshushim.
Day 14: Discovering the Northern Region
We will experience the beauty of Mount Tabor and the town of Tiberias. We will explore Kafr Kanna, where the first miracle of Jesus is believed to have occurred, and Nazareth, the childhood home of Jesus. We will see the Basilica of the Annunciation and the main town of the Jezreel Valley, Afula. We will Continue to Caesarea and end the day in Tel Aviv and the ancient seaport of Jaffa.
Day 15: Free Day
Free day again, to enjoy the wonders of Israel independently.
