Places Not To Be Missed On Holy Land Vacations

By Gary Edwards


Christians who are lucky enough to get a chance to visit the Middle East, usually have specific sights they want to see. Most of these places are areas where Jesus is believed to have lived, taught, died, and rose from the dead. Visitors try to get in as many sights as possible before they have to depart for home. Carefully planning their itinerary beforehand is important. There are certain places people will definitely not want to miss on their Holy Land vacations.

One of the most popular things to do while in Israel is to walk the path Jesus took to the cross. This is called the Via Dolorosa, and it is an experience not to be missed. Beginning in the Muslim Quarter, pedestrians have a chance to stop at the fourteen stations of the cross along the way. They are easy to miss however, and it is advisable to either take a guided tour or join the Friday procession.

When the Way of Sorrows ends, visitors find themselves facing the Church of the Sepulchre. Most stop to visit this holy site in the Old City. It is where the crucifixion took place and is identified biblically as Calvary or Golgotha. Many believe the tomb of Christ is located below the church which has been the destination of pilgrims since the fourth century. The church is open to the public but there are areas that are off limits to visitors.

Opinions differ as to the actual location of Jesus' burial place. There are historians who argue that He is not buried in the Church of the Sepulchre, but rather is interred in the Garden Tomb discovered in mid eighteen hundred. Protestants are especially drawn to this tomb. Both chambers are open for the public to explore.

Jesus performed miracles and chose fishermen at the Sea of Galilee, so it is high on the list of places to see while in the area. Visitors are often surprised to learn that the sea is actually a large freshwater lake that provides half of Israel's water supply. Guests are invited to take rides in vessels built in somewhat the same manner as those used in Jesus' time.

Bethlehem is in disputed territory, so visitors have to take that into consideration when deciding whether or not to include it in their vacation planning. Most take the risk to see the place where Jesus is believed to have been born. Visitors to Bethlehem can stand in Shepherd's Field where the angels announced the birth of Christ.

Visitors to Nazareth, Jesus' childhood home and the town where Mary and Joseph lived when Gabriel appeared to Mary, is an interesting town to visit. Guests can see Mary's Well and spend some time in the Church of the Annunciation. The original structure, built to commemorate Gabriel's revelation to Mary, is gone. The current one was erected in the mid twentieth century to replace it. Nazareth is located in the vicinity of Mount Tabor.

A trip to the Holy Land is an experience not to be missed for those who have the chance. It is a place sacred to many. Most visitors come away with a renewed commitment to their faith and a clearer sense of Jesus' life.




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