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Some Top Places To See For Christians On Their First 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.

The Via Dolorosa is the path believers say Jesus was taken on the way to the cross. Visitors can take the same walk and stop along the way at each one of the fourteen stations of the cross. It begins at the Lions' Gate in the Muslim Quarter. Most advise tourists to join the Friday procession or take a guided tour because some stations of the cross can be difficult to spot.

The walk ends at the Old City and the Church of the Sepulchre. This is the spot known as Golgotha or Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Many believers feel that Jesus' tomb is located beneath the ancient church, which has been the final destination for pilgrimages as far back as the fourth century. The church welcomes visitors to browse respectfully.

The Garden Tomb is one of several places historians believe Jesus may have been buried. It was discovered in the middle nineteenth century and has become an especially popular place for Protestants to spend time in prayer and contemplation. Visitors are welcome to explore the double chamber.

The Sea of Galilee is where Jesus performed a number of miracles and gathered local fishermen to become His disciples. The Sea of Galilee is not actually a sea at all. It is the largest freshwater lake in Israel. For those interested, there are boat rides available that take guests on tours in vessels similar to the ones used in the time of Jesus.

Bethlehem, believed to be Christ's birthplace, is an important destination, but can be a risky one. It is in Judea, which is currently disputed territory. Visitors who decide to take the risk are allowed to spend time in Shepherd's Field. This is traditionally believed to be the place where Christ's birth was announced by the angels.

Nazareth, which is located near Mount Tabor, and the town where Jesus grew up, should also be on the list of places to see while in Israel. Tourists can visit Mary's Well where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and informed her she would give birth to the Christ child. The original Church of the Annunciation, which was built to mark the significance of this event, was destroyed, but a new one was built in the late 1950s.

The Holy Land is a special place for Christians. Traveling in the area is more like a pilgrimage than a vacation. Those lucky enough to see the places Jesus may have inhabited, never forget the experience. Many find a renewed sense of commitment and dedication to His teachings that last a lifetime.




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