
Mosaic at Tabgha church © Judith Duk
The Galilee is Israel's most fertile region, with an abundance
of valleys, forests and farmlands. Tourists are drawn to the
recreational pursuits and historical attractions associated with
the area. Lake Tiberias (also known as the Sea of Galilee) is an
area closely associated with the life and times of Jesus, making it
a religious centre for both Christians and Jews - and the area is
full of religious shrines and historical sites of interest. The
city of Tiberias was built in honour of the Roman Emperor after
which it was named and has played an integral role in the history
of the Jews. Not only did it serve as an important spiritual centre
and as the site of the compilation of the Talmud, early pioneers
also established some of Israel's first
kibbutzim
(collective farms) around Tiberias. Today it is a popular vacation
spot, offering year-round water activities, hot springs, health
resorts and magnificent national parks.
Attractions

Ancient Beit She'an City © AnyaLogic
Beit She'an National Park
Beit She'an was established in the 5th century BC. Its strategic
location brought with it many skirmishes in an effort to control
this hilltop settlement. It was the seat of Egyptian rule before
falling to the King of Assyria and was later resettled...
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Gan Hashlosha National Park © Israel Nature and National Parks Protection Authority
Gan Hashlosha National Park (Sahne)
The warm waters of the Amal River flow through the length of the
park and can be enjoyed year round, with temperatures in the region
averaging around 82ºF (28ºC). Visitors to Gan Hashlosha
can relax in the natural pools and rejuvenate in the...
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Hamat Tiberias National Park © www.parks.org.il
Hamat Tiberias National Park
The 17 springs of Hamat Tiberias flow from a source that
stretches 33ft (10m) below the ground. Its therapeutic powers have
been used since ancient times to cure various ailments. The Hamat
Tiberias synagogue, built between 337 and 286 BC, contains the
oldest surviving...
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Excursions
Caesarea
The ancient port-city of Caesarea was established 2,000 years
ago by Herod the Great as a tribute to the Roman Emperor, Augustus
Caesar. Its rich archaeological heritage includes the remains of
Roman architecture - most notably, an aqueduct, a theatre, houses
and palaces. For...
see full detailsNazareth
Nazareth is one of the most important Christian holy sites,
attracting pilgrims from all over the world. It was here that Jesus
spent most of his life and it was here that the Miracle of the
Annunciation took place. Nazareth is home to...
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