There are archaeological sites in Israel literally everywhere you turn, and it is no wonder when you consider how many rules the land has been under over the course of thousands of years. Sites like the Western Wall, the Belvoir Fortress, Qumran and Shivta are just a few archaeological sites among many found in Israel, all of which offer an exciting glimpse into history and tell a detailed story. Here are some of the most popular and interesting archaeological sites in Israel, although, as you will realize when you are here, almost everywhere you turn, there is another archaeological site, a fortress or ruin, there for you to explore.
Archaeological Sites in Israel
Archaeological Sites in Israel
Safed Citadel (Tsfat)
Safed’s Citadel is the highest point of Israel’s highest city, Safed, some near 1,000 meters (3,000+ feet) above sea level, and a historically important site. Overseeing the Sea of Galilee, the mountains of the Upper Galilee including Mt. Meron, and portions of the Golan, the Citadel commands an amazing vantage point for military purposes. But in peacetime it served an important use as well - the early Jewish kingdoms used the mountaintop as a place to signal other far-reaching villages and cities updates on the announcing of the new month. Today it hosts a early war memorial and a park. Read MoreHamat Gader
The Hamat Gader resort is one of the most unique places in the north of Israel. Tucked away under the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret) and eastward of the Jordan River, Hamat Gader featured a ton of unique attractions for all ages. The main attraction is obviously the thermal springs which have been exploited by mankind since the Romans, some 2,000 years ago. But there is more, Hamat Gader also hosts the only crocodile farm in all of the Middle East. Read More
Gan Hashlosha (Sachne)
Gan Hashlosha, otherwise known as the Sachne, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Israel. Located in the Lower Galilee, some believe that Gan Hashlosha is the real-world location of the garden of Eden, and, once you visit, you might understand why. The main highlight of Gan Hashlosha are its beautiful pools shaded by lush palm trees and surrounded by green lawns, which are constantly 28 degrees celcius year-round. The park also has an archaeology museum and tower and stockade, and is popular with visitors who come to spend a day swimming and relaxing, or to explore the history and admire the beauty it has to offer. Read More
Nimrod Fortress
The Nimrod Fortress is the biggest Crusade-era castle in all of Israel, a mountain-top stronghold spanning back to the 13th century. With views of much of the Golan, the Nimrod Fortress is situated on a peak neighboring Israel's highest and only snow-capped mountain, Mount Hermon. Below the fortress are the lush Banias forests with the rivers and waterfalls. The ruins of Nimrod Fortress are beautiful and well-preserved, a truly visible snapshot of history. Read More