Everything is close in Israel (about the size of NJ). Makes traveling pretty easy, but it’s understandable why Israelis can be a little tense as we travel with the Mediterranean on our left and the Sumerian mountains visible on our right a mere ten miles away. And those overlooking heights don’t harbor friends. Our first stop is Caesarea….
An ancient Roman port and aqueduct with Byzantine streets and Crusader ruins. Developed originally by Herod, a visionary in seeing the fortune to be made by building this port and attracting trade to it. Herod was probably reincarnated in Baron Rothschild who did the same with it two centuries later…after many iterations.
In front of the Roman amphitheater. Was three times this size, and one-sided, facing the Mediterranean to view simulated sea battles…as well as gladiators. Now often used for modern concerts.
Part of a sign for an ancient podiatrist?
We ascend Mt. Carmel through Haifa for spectacular views of the impressive golden domed Baha’i Shrine and surrounding Persian gardens…
…and the Haifa bay and harbor. We stopped for lunch at one of the prominent Druze villages…a unique group of Israeli arabs who even serve prominently in the IDF. Interesting to note how Druze women are totally equal to the men in all phases of their society (even more equal than Israeli women according to our guide).
To Nazareth and the Basilica of the Annunciation, built above the home of the Virgin Mary and the place where…
…the angel Gabriel (top) announced the imminent birth of her son.
Panels of the Virgin designed and made world-wide are placed around the walls of the Basilica. This one was made in the US by Charles Madden — commissioned to do in 1972. Look him up; an amazing artist.
Now off to the Hotel at the Lavi Kibbutz in the Lower Galilee. Tomorrow to the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights.
Great pictures & stories .. thanks for sharing .. Adel
We didn’t go to Nazareth, so now we see it through your camera lens/eye.