Must-see Holy sites in Israel
There is no shortage of holy sites in Israel. Here is a list of those you must make time to see during your travels here. You don’t want to miss out on them, no matter what your religion happens to be.
The Western Wall
Considered to be one of the holiest areas in Jerusalem is the Western Wall. This is what is left of the wall built by Herod around the Temple Mount. The stones offer very detailed carvings and are an inside look into the style and architecture used during the early period of Jewish history. The symbolism of this area is the connection between Israel and the Jewish people.
Church of the Holy Sepulcher
This area of Jerusalem is considered to be the most sacred, and this to be the holiest of all churches. This church is on the location where Jesus was crucified, entombed, and resurrected.
Al-Aqsa Mosque
This mosque is located on the South side of Temple Mount and dates back to 720 A.D. It is one of the three most important places for Muslims to pray. The other two locations are Medina and Mecca. Al-Aqsa Mosque is often very busy with individuals coming to offer daily prayers.
Dome of the Rock
The lovely shrine, known as Dome of the Rock, is located in Jerusalem and it was created in 691 A.D. It is believed this rock was the foundation of the First and Second Temples. The rock is believed to be the altar upon which Abraham was going to sacrifice Isaac. This same rock is believed to be where the Prophet Mohammed was able to see heaven in his journey in the 17th Sura of the Koran.
Mount of Olives
This area offers an amazing view of the Old City of Jerusalem. It is believed this location is where Jesus had a vision of seeing the entire area in ruins. It is also believed to be where he made his journey from Earth to Heaven. Not far from this location is the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus was arrested. The area has historical meaning due to the Jewish pilgrimage to the location. There is also a graveyard with important pilgrims laid to rest here.
Baha’i Gardens
This is a lovely region on the outskirts of Akko. The tomb of Baha’i Allah is located here. He was the creator of the Baha’i faith, and it is considered the holiest location for followers of that faith.