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The Holy Land

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Upcoming events


Israel Storytelling Festival

Since 1993, Givatayim holds one of the most attractive festivals – Israel Storytelling Festival. The festival was established and is managed by the writer and theater person Yossi Alfi. Every year in the intermediate days between the first and last days of Sukkot (Hol Hamoed), Yossi gathers the best story tellers to share their personal stories with the audience. In a continuity of meetings during seven days, numerous stories driven from the social and cultural day to day life in Israel are told.


Tamar Festival

The annual Tamar Festival takes place at Masada and the Dead Sea and features some of Israel’s most prominent musicians and artists. It originated in 2000 to promote Israeli music as well as the beautiful desert landscapes. This multi-day festival includes concerts from sunrise to sunset and tickets are available online months in advance.


Kaparot at Machane Yehuda

Kaparot consists of carefully passing a chicken over one’s head three times while reciting the appropriate text. The chicken is then slaughtered in a humane fashion in accordance with the laws of kashrut. The chicken itself is discreetly donated to a charitable cause, such as a yeshiva or orphanage, where it is eaten just as any other chicken. Alternatively, the chicken is sold and its value donated. https://www.gojerusalem.com/events/250/Shuk-Kaparot/


Chayei Sarah Shabbat in Hebron

An estimated 40,000-50,000 Jews from around the world converged on the city of Hebron and its adjacent sister city, Kiryat Arba, over Shabbat in honor of Sarah, the biblical matriarch of the Jewish people.

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Upcoming Holidays


Fast of Gedaliah

The Fast of Gedaliah is a day set aside to commemorate the assassination of Gedaliah, the Babylonian-appointed official charged with administering the Jewish population remaining in Judah following the destruction of the Temple and exile in 586 B.C.E. It is observed on the third of Tishrei (the day after Rosh Hashanah ) with a fast from sunrise to sundown, and like on other fast days, the recital of special prayers (“Anenu”) and the reading of selected biblical readings (Exodus 32:14; 34:1-10).


Jerusalem Day of Prayer for All Nations

The Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem is a prayer meeting organized by Pentecostal evangelists Jack W. Hayford and Robert Stearns through their organization "Eagles Wings". They annually invite people around the world to pray for Jerusalem on the first Sunday of every October, close to the time of Yom Kippur. The first prayer meeting organized by this group occurred in 2004. Hayford and Stearns organize the primary meeting in Israel. According to a CBN interview with Stearns, he believes that prayer meetings are important to combat various dangers to the Judeo-Christian worldview, such as secular humanism and Radical Islam, and he believes that Christians are especially obligated to support the State of Israel. According to "Jerusalem Newswire" a small independent Christian publication, organizers of the 2006 event claimed that they had scheduled prayer meetings to be held in 150,000 churches around the world. The coordinators scheduled for prayer meetings to be organized in 169 nations. In 2004, 500 global Christian ministries representing 50 countries and 53,000 churches said prayers for peace in Jerusalem on the same day. The organization's goal in 2006 was to have over 100 million people in over 100 countries participate in prayer meetings. The prayer meeting in Jerusalem in 2006 was held inside the gates of the Old City of Jerusalem and was attended by "hundreds of Christian lovers of Israel gathered with Jewish friends." International denominations Assemblies of God, and Elim Fellowship took part in the 2006 prayer and support the annual prayers.


Simchat Torah

Simchat Torah, a celebration of the conclusion of one and the beginning of another annual cycle of readings from the Torah. Simchat Torah conveys a clear message about the centrality of Torah in Jewish life. It is both a source of Jewish identity and a precious gift from God. Simchat Torah is the day on which the whole community gathers to come into direct contact with the Torah and to express our joy in having received it.


Shemini Atzeret

Shemini Atzeret is mentioned in the Bible, but its exact function is unclear. In Second Temple times, it appears to have been a day devoted to the ritual cleansing of the altar in the Temple. With the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE, this function of the day became obsolete. Although it marks the beginning of the rainy season in Israel and, therefore includes the year’s first prayer for rain.


Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, it’s celebrated as the head of the Jewish year. It is the anniversary of the creation of Adam and Eve, and a day of judgment and coronation of God as king. The central observance of Rosh Hashanah is blowing the shofar (ram’s horn) on both mornings of the holiday, which is normally done in synagogue as part of the day’s services but may be done elsewhere for those who cannot attend.


Hanukkah

Hanukkah, which is Hebrew for “dedication,” is the Festival of Lights. It commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greek army, and the subsequent miracle of rededicating the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and restoring its menorah, or lamp. The miracle of Hanukkah is that only one vial of oil was found with just enough oil to illuminate the Temple lamp for one day, and yet it lasted for eight full days. Check out the following Hanukkah Lighting Events: New York, London, Campo del Ghetto, Hudson Valley      

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אתרים מומלצים Sites to see

Sites

Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu

Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu: A Site of Deep Reflection The Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, set on the eastern slope of Mount Zion in Jerusalem, resonates with profound Christian significance. This sacred site marks the location where Peter wept bitterly after denying Jesus three times before his crucifixion, an event recounted in the Gospels. The church, with its vibrant mosaics and stunning vistas over the Old City, was established in 1931 by the Assumptionist Fathers, though its historical significance dates back to Byzantine times. Architecturally, the church is a marvel, featuring a mix of styles and adorned with symbolic artwork that narrates key biblical moments. Its name, 'Gallicantu,' meaning 'cock's crow,' serves as a poignant reminder of Peter's remorse, encapsulating moments of faith, repentance, and redemption. Today, the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu is both a pilgrimage site and a destination for spiritual introspection. Pilgrims from around the globe come to retrace the steps of Jesus and his disciples, often visiting the subterranean dungeon where Jesus is believed to have been imprisoned. The church also hosts various religious ceremonies and events, enhancing its role as a living monument of faith. This site, significant to both Christian and Jewish travelers, offers a narrative that intertwines the historical and spiritual heritage of Jerusalem, thus connecting diverse stories of devotion and communal memory. People visit to reflect on forgiveness and betrayal, drawing meaning from one of the most poignant episodes in the New Testament.

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Tours of The Holy Land

Tours

Caesarea, Zichron, and Haifa Tour

This is a one-day private tour to Zichron Yaakov, Caesarea and Haifa. With a personal guide you will tour the highlights of these sights, representing ancient, modern and multicultural Israel. Tour the ruins in Caesarea and visit the famous amphiteater. Then, journey to Zichron Yaakov, one of Israel’s first settlements and learn about the Jewish pioneers whilst enjoying the quaint atmosphere. Visit the Carmel winery during your Zichron Yaakov private tour before journeying north to Haifa. Here you will enjoy panoramic views over the city where Jews, Muslim, Christian and Bahai peacefully coexist. For a final stop on your private tour, stop at the Druze village Dalit-el-Carmel, it’s a real feast for the senses. Your personal guide will be able to tailor the day to your preferences. This is your private tour so customize it and enjoy it! During the tour we will stop at the following sites: Bahai Gardens in Haifa, Beit NILI, Caesarea National Park, Daliat-el-Carmel, German Colony in Haifa, Zichron Yaakov Wineries, and Muhraka Monastery in Haifa The private tour starts by driving along the coast road to Caesarea. Made famous by Herod, he built a Roman City in honor of Caesar Augustus. On your private tour you will explore the ancient ruins with your personal guide, explaining the history surrounding the aqueducts, homes, stores, hippodrome, Herod’s palace, temples, warehouses and the ancient port. View the crusader fortress, the Ottoman mosque and the Roman amphitheater, which still functions today. You will continue your private tour to Zichron Yaakov, at the southern end of the Carmel Mountain range. Founded in 1882, by Baron Rothschild, it’s one of Israel’s earliest settlements. There are cottages with inner courtyards designed with a European influence. The main thoroughfare of Zichron Yaakov is a cobbled street with quaint cafes and boutique shops. Your Zichron Yaakov private tour will take you to Beit Nili, a base for a spy ring during World War I. Next, a visit to the Ohel Yaakov Synagogue, dating back to 1886. Finally, stop for wine tasting at The Carmel Winery, established in 1885 as Israel’s first winery. This is your Zichron Yaakov custom tour, so you decide the order and the pace. Heading north to Haifa, enjoy the immaculate Baha'i Gardens and take in the panoramic view across Haifa bay. On your private tour, visit the German Templar settlement, then head up to the Muhraka Monastery which sits on the highest point of the Carmel Mountain range. It is believed that the Prophet Elijah took refuge here during the Crusader era. Enjoy some wonderful views of the valley below.On the return journey, stop at the Druze village, Dalit-el-carmel. This is a feast for the senses with a vibrant marketplace packed with delicious food and fresh aromas. Have your personal guide explain the traditional Druze dress and religious beliefs.

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מסעדות בסגנון יהודי RESTAURANTS

Restaurants

Little Tiberias Restaurant

Little Tiberias is a quality chef-restaurant with a menu featuring gourmet French Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is located inside a building that forms part of the ancient city wall of Tiberias and that dates back to Roman times. Its special setting, as well as the beautifully planned interior, grant Little Tiberias an exclusive European atmosphere, like a little French Riviera on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. The restaurant is family-owned, and was opened by Rafi, the head of the family and the founder. The whole family are culinary specialists, with generations of acquired knowledge. They are headed by the restaurant's chef, David Oudiz, whose kitchen produces excellent original dishes – starters, appetizers, soups and pastas, and succulent main dishes of fish, meat and seafood. As befits a beautifully designed, romantic restaurant in a tourist destination, the clientele of Little Tiberias is very varied – guests are of all ages, foreign and Israeli tourists, couples, and regular clients from the city and the surrounding region who enjoy their dining experience and come back again and again. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a blend of harmonious background music – classical jazz, romantic music, and popular hits. In the 1980s, the building housed a famous pub that was a major leisure attraction in Tiberias and for residents of the region. Later, an Italian restaurant was opened, but in recent years the site was renovated and improved. Some dishes on the menu (like our renowned steak with pepper and cream), remain as before, with all the tradition and know-how that the family accumulated. The restaurant, designed by architect Gadi Shamir, has two wings: the old, authentic wing, with beautiful wood elements of old telephone poles carved in classic style, with wooden wine racks, and a mural painted by the famous Tiberias-born artist – Amos Yaskil. The beautiful new wing is larger, and now offers a bar that's perfect for drinking wine and spirits, and for dining too. You can also sit on the spacious balcony, with its windows offering impressive views. We are happy to cater private events in a separate room.

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מדריכים בעיר CITY GUIDES

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קראו עוד בלוגים וספרים אלקטרוניים READ MORE BLOGS AND EBOOKS

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Summary
Transform your travels with A Journey Through the Christian Pilgrim Map - a comprehensive guide to holy sites and Christian traditions. Begin your journey today!
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Discover the ultimate guide to Israel’s sacred sites! Perfect for spiritual seekers and history lovers, this eBook offers tips, itineraries, and insights for an unforgettable pilgrimage.
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Hotels in The Holy Land

Hotels

Akotika

The old city of Akko captivated us with its charm. The story of the city, which started thousands of years ago. A peninsula enclosed by ancient walls and the blue sea surrounding it and within, an endless range of colors, smells and tastes: the picturesque fishermen's port, an authentic market, superb chef restaurants all serving dishes made from the local fish and produce. We, Tamar and Meir, have found life to be enthralling, authentic and colorful in Akko. A tapestry of old and new, East and West, Land and Sea. We fell in love with this magical city and we invite you to stay with us for a different experience. As you wander through the alleys and stay in our suites, you'll be joining all those who inhabited Akko before you: Crusaders, Mamelukes, Ottomans, Jews, Christians, Muslims and Bahais, members of all religions and faiths who have lived in Akko throughout history. Get lost in the allies, sip bitter coffee in one of the local cafés, smoke a hookah at Han A-Shwarda, eat Humus, pamper yourselves at the Turkish Bath, eat at one of the fine restaurants the old city hosts, walk along the sea at sunset and visit the unique archeological sites. And when you are ready for a break, relax in your indulging suite or on the Roof-Top-Terrace, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you are a couple on a romantic retreat, a family, a small group or on a business trip, we have an unforgettable place to offer you. Leave you high heels at home, because Akko like so many old cities is abundant with stairs and cobblestone allies. Due to the constrictions of preservation, most of our suites and our Roof-Top-Terrace are accessible only by stairs. The suites are scattered along the picturesque allies of the old city, and still just a short walking distance for one another. The Old City of Akko is so small that everything is close by. A short walk will lead you to the main building, which houses the Reception, Lobby and the Roof-Terrace, where breakfast is served daily. A great spot to relax with the exquisite view of the Mediterranean Sea and the old city walls.

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The Pressbook celebrates the one year anniversary of the Jewish Silk Road Portal launch, an amazing example of using Jewish travel as a means of cultural diplomacy, whilst highlighting the significant Jewish contribution to the ancient trade route. Kudos to our participating partners from the Kiriaty Foundation (Turkey), National Board of Tourism of #Georgia, National Board of Tourism of #Uzbekistan, and Israeli Embassy of #India. 

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World Jewish Travel was thrilled at #IMTM 2024 to present a copy of the WJT Jewish Silk Road Pressbook to the CEO of the Azerbaijan National Tourism Board Florian Sengstschmid and Jamilya Talibzade its Israeli representative Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB).

The Pressbook celebrates the one year anniversary of the Jewish Silk Road Portal launch, an amazing example of using Jewish travel as a means of cultural diplomacy, whilst highlighting the significant Jewish contribution to the ancient trade route. Kudos to our participating partners from the Kiriaty Foundation (Turkey), National Board of Tourism of #Georgia, National Board of Tourism of #Uzbekistan, and Israeli Embassy of #India. 

See the overwhelming reaction from the press, by downloading our free pressbook. Special thanks to Moshe Gilad of the @haaretzcom for highlighting this forgotten but important story in the Galeria section of the newspaper and available to download on WJT.

👉Link to WJT Jewsih Silk Rad Pressbook and more is in our bio

...

40 2
Step into the soul-stirring Pesach traditions of Jerusalem virtually. Experience the resonating echoes of Birkat Kohanim🌿

 Link is in our bio

#VirtualTravel #JerusalemVibes #SpiritualJourney #JewishTravel #Isarel  #BirkatKohanim #JewishJerusalem

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Find link in our bio

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