Jewish Sites in Northern Israel
Northern Israel contains many landmarks of Jewish history. A plethora of historical, archeological and religious sites exist in this region. Safed Tiberias and Mount Meron are three northern locations that are paramount to Jewish history.
Safed
The small town of Safed is located in Israel’s upper Galilee at 900 meters above sea level. Safed’s highest point, its citadel, offers magnificent views of the Golan Heights, Mount Meron, and the neighboring country of Lebanon. But beauty alone is not Safed’s only advantage. The town was a crucial observation point, enabling citizens to defend themselves against the conquering attempts, for thousands of years leading up to Israel’s 1948 War of Independence.
Safed is a center of Kabbalah, the mystical writings of Judaism, and the city contains many important religious and historic attractions. Many leaders of the Kabbalah movement, such as Rabbi Ari and Joseph Caro, are buried in Safed cemetery. Jewish life in Safed for the past two hundred years is displayed in the Hameiri House museum, with preserved rooms, artifacts, and a photo archive. This museum is highly recommended to appreciate Jewish local life.
Safed is also known for its Artists’ Quarter, where Judaism and artistry combine to provide beautiful artifacts. Safed residents make many varied products, such as paintings, artwork in wax, dolls, and even boutique wines and cheeses. Stroll along the cobbled pathways of Safed to enjoy a spiritual, old world experience.
Tiberias
Tiberias is a popular seaside resort for both locals and international tourists, as it resides beside the Sea of Galilee. However, Tiberias has far more to offer than just fun. The city holds great historical and religious significance, as this is the burial site of some of the leading Jewish thinkers, known as the Tzaddikim, the Hebrew word for righteous. The great Jewish philosopher and doctor, Rabbi Moses Ben Maimon, popularly known as the Rambam, is buried in Tiberias. Visit the Rambam’s tomb and the excellent museum displaying relics of his life and work. Tiberias is also the resting place of Yohanan Ben Zakkai, a Jewish leader and educationalist active after the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Tiberias was particularly important as a stronghold of Jewish uprising against the Romans, and it is fitting that great Jewish leaders should be buried in this beautiful spot in the Galilee.
Mount Meron
Mount Meron is the highest peak in Israel, at over 1,200 meters above sea level. The mountain is meaningful to Judaism, and parts of it serve as a nature reserve. Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai is buried on Mount Meron. Rabbi Bar Yochai authored the Kabbalah, and discovered the Zohar, another mystical Jewish text. Every year on the Jewish festival of Lag BaOmer, thousands of people flock to his tomb to celebrate his life and work. This day is the death date of Rabbi Bar Yochai, but the rabbi reportedly encouraged his disciples to be joyous on this date, and to celebrate Judaism. The rabbi was convicted of a capital crime by the Romans, and was forced to hide in a cave. He should have lived a short and painful life. However, he enjoyed a long and fruitful life, and observant Jews consider this a miracle of the Torah and of righteous belief and holy observance.
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