Jerusalem’s history spans continuously over 4000 years and as the only place in the world cherished by the three monotheistic religions , it arouses a unique passion that envelopes many nations and individuals.
Jerusalem became the capital of Israel when it was conquered by David.
Mt Moriah, the location where Solomon, David’s son constructed the first temple is where all 3 monotheistic religions have a starting point. Christianity and Judaism believe this to be the location where Issac was offered by Abraham and Muslims regard it as the location where Mohammad rose to heaven to receive the word of Islam.
Religious services can be arranged for all faiths, on request.
An all-inclusive view of the city of Jerusalem from the Mt. of Olives, with a discussion of Jerusalem’s history brings with it a perception of the mood from ancient to modern times. Visit the most compelling points of interest following the Last Path, through the Valley of Kidron , ascending to the walled city and walking the Way of Suffering (Via Dolorosa), the route taken on the Eve of Passover, around the year 33 A.D.
Sites on the same route and close in themes and therefore can be exchanged or added, depending on personal preferences and time constraints.
Chapel of Dominus Flevit: “As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it….” (Luke 19:41)
Tower of David Museum: museum for history of Jerusalem.
Israel Museum: with its large scale model of Jerusalem from the Second Temple Period and Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are kept.
Bethlehem: major Christian site, where the Church of Nativity, marking the traditional birthplace of Christ, is located.
The Milk Grotto: a serene grotto only a few minutes’ walk from Manger Square in Bethlehem, believed to be the location that the Holy Family took refuge during the Slaughter of the Innocents, before they fled into Egypt.
Shepherd’s Field: which leads through the Christian Village of Beit Sahour, near Bethlehem is associated with the fields where the shepherds saw the Star of Nativity.
Garden Tomb: a rock hewn tomb believed by some to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection.
Petrus in Gallicantu Church: traditionally, where Peter denied Jesus.
Church of St. Anne: a 12th-century Crusader church , built over the traditional site of the birthplace of Anne, ‘Mary’s mother’. Acoustics, designed for Gregorian chant, are so perfect that the church is virtually a musical instrument to be played by the human voice. Pilgrim groups come to sing in the church throughout the day.
Bethesda Pools: believed to be the site where Jesus healed a paralytic (John 5:1-15). Ruins of a Roman temple to the god of medicine can be viewed here and remains of a Byzantine church built over the temple.
Ein Kerem: birthplace of John the Baptist, this scenic town is less than a day’s walk form the Temple in Jerusalem, where Zacharia, John’s father was called to his duties, as priest.
Church of St. John: inside of which is a cave, traditionally the birthplace of John the Baptist.
Church of Visitation: located on the hillside of Ein Kerem with a splendid view of the valley and the surrounding forest topped hills.