Many people say that the best vacations they have ever had are the ones that changed them in one way or another. In the age of digital technology when everything is routine and moving in a fast pace, it is somewhat hard to believe that such travel experiences that touch the depths of the human soul still exist. Israel is one of the places on earth that can serve as a refuge for those that are in need of an escape from their hectic everyday lives. It is abundant of ancient structures with religious significance, making it not only a sanctuary for the restless, but also a haven for the history and culture buffs, and a vast land to conquer for the adventurous.
Israel and the West Bank, a widely disputed Palestinian territory, are together known as the Holy Land. This Middle Eastern region is home to a wide array of sacred sites mentioned in various books of faith such as the Bible, the Quran and the Torah, which is why it is a popular destination for pilgrimages. Despite the well-known conflict in this part of the world, Holy Land tours continue to attract the religious faithful as well as interested visitors.
The Holy Land has quite a number of sacred and religious places for every traveler to explore. Here are some of them.
Jerusalem
Religion has always been a vital role in shaping Israeli lifestyle and culture. Perhaps, this fact is most evident in Jerusalem. Modern buildings as well as ancient structures that have survived the tests of time are great testament to that.
Western Wall – Also known as the Wailing Wall, it is all that remains of the Temple for Jewish worship. To this day, it is the most preferred place to pray for Jews from all over the world.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre – This church is considered to be the holiest site in all Christendom as it is where Christ was buried and rose from the dead.
Al Aqsa – It is the most important mosque in Jerusalem that serves as the central place of worship of the Muslim community. It is located on the Temple Mount, the third holiest site in Islam, and is crowded by Muslims for daily prayers and Friday sermons.
West Bank
The world has witnessed the dispute between Israel and Palestine for this land. The territory was first called the West Bank in 1950 when it is annexed to Transjordan to form the new Kingdom of Jordan.
Church of Nativity – It is one of the oldest surviving Christian churches commissioned by Constantine and is one of the major holy sites in the region. Located in Bethlehem, it marks the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ.
Haifa
Overlooking a bay on the Mediterranean Sea, Haifa is popular among vacation-goers for its geographical location as much as its religious sites. Like most of the Holy Land, Haifa has been inhabited since the ancient times.
Elijah's Cave – This is an important sanctuary for many religions. It is buried underneath the main altar of a chapel, which is believed to be the very cave in which the Prophet lived and taught.
The important and fascinating places that the region has to offer make a tour of Israel one of the most sought for destinations by travelers the world over. Whether they are Christians, Muslims or Jews, archeologists or historians, or are just plain curious, the Holy Land is a place that is well worth the visit.
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