iSavta | 15.06.2020

Whether you are new to Israel, or have been working here for a long time, surely one thinks of places you can visit to have an unforgettable getaway. Going to places & taking great photos will be some of the best souvenirs you will ever have. And definitely, once the COVID-19 pandemic ends, everybody would just be most eager to enjoy a more normal life once more. 

 

The country, though small compared to its neighbors, is home to the most revered places of some of the world's great religions. At least one-third of the world’s population consider this as their most Holy Place - Christians, Jews, and Muslims believe in it's importance in their traditions, and its sacredness. No wonder, people from all over the globe come, join pilgrimages, and put it in their bucket lists to just visit at least once in their lifetimes.

 

For others, it is the center of the world. If you are working in Israel now, why not maximize your stay by creating outstanding memories in the Holy Land. These are some of the places you shouldn't miss:

 

Dome of the Rock

 

One of Islam’s most important sites, it is undeniably an architectural treasure. It’s dome, plated in 80kg of gold, dominates Jerusalem’s skyline. It’s walls are covered with beautiful Byzantine designs that took 7 years to complete. This dome together with its neighbor, Al-Aqsa Mosque, is what Muslims consider to be the place where Mohammad journeyed to heaven, and is the third most holy place on earth after Mecca and Medina. 

 

Western Wall

 

This structure has survived from ancient times and is the closest site to Temple Mount where Solomon’s temple once stood. Because of this geographical location, Jews and Christians around the world come to pray fervently, touching the walls and leaving paper notes with prayer requests believing that their prayers will be answered. 

 

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

 

Shared by Roman Catholics, Evangelicals and Orthodox Christians, and Armenian Apostolic, this is the site believed to be where Jesus died, was buried and ascended to heaven. The church is located in the Christian quarter of the old city and four stations of the Via Dolorosa are located within the church complex. The Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem is a visible symbol of Christianity located within the wider complex of the church. Pilgrims come from all over the globe to visit the site where Christ suffered, crucified and resurrected for the salvation of mankind. 

 

Tel Aviv Promenade

 

While Jerusalem is considered to be the country’s capital, Tel Aviv is widely acknowledged as Israel’s economic and technological center. It is home to many embassies and receives an average of 2.5 Million guests every year. The city is also home to beautiful Mediterranean beaches - with a charming view of the city’s skyline. It is now a perfect getaway for friends who want to bath under the sun. 

 

Masada

 

Built on top of an isolated rock in Israel's Southern District, this is the site where King Herod the great built two of his palaces and fortified the area. Overlooking the Dead Sea, it was the last stand of Sicarris - Jews who strongly opposed the Romans. In 73-74CE, the Romans surrounded the fortress and there was a siege. Instead of raising the white flag for surrender, they opt not to be conquered and committed mass suicide. Today, Masada reminds the whole world of the courage of the Jews who fought against the Romans. It is one of Israel’s most visited tourist attractions.

 

Sea of Galilee

 

Probably one of the most famous places in the Christian World, this is the site where many of Jesus’ miracles happened - the walking on water, the calming of the storm, and the great catch of fish. Four of the Biblical Apostles were fishermen and thought to have come from this area. Landlocked, it is actually a freshwater lake and is the second lowest point on earth. Aside from many religious people who come and visit this historic place, the Kinneret Crossing which is an open water swim race also draws crowds of people to the Sea of Galilee.

 

Dead Sea

 

While the Sea of Galilee is a freshwater lake, the Dead Sea is the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. While pillars of salt are commonly found in this long-time health resort, it’s called the dead sea because animals and plants don’t thrive in this very salty place. World class hotels are available to accommodate tourists and locals alike as they come to experience the most famous “floating in the Dead Sea.” 

 

Haifa

 

The third largest city in Israel boasts of the beautiful gardens of the Baha’i Shrine of Bab, modern buildings, folk dances on the beach, museums and theaters, and even historic caves on the Mt. Carmel National Park. And, don’t forget to have a cup of coffee in Haifa, not only is it one of the best, lined cafes are just a perfect relaxing atmosphere. 

Today, great minds race for the vaccine to address the Corona Virus issue. Once everything gets back to normal, the first thing everybody’s gonna do, is to enjoy each other’s company without the need for social distancing, why not visit these sites and see for yourselves what Israel has to offer.