7 Places In Israel Every Local Is Proud Of

Despite its humble size, Israel boasts an incredible range of awe-inspiring attractions. The huge number of people who’ve migrated here over the ages have created a country filled with sites you would be a fool to miss. Obviously, it’s impossible to see everything in one trip, but here are just a few attractions the locals are particularly proud of.

# The Western Wall

The Western Wall, or Kotel as the locals know it, is the holiest site in Judaism, and the Temple Mount right behind it hosts one of the most important mosques for Muslims worldwide. Situated near the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City, the Western Wall is surrounded by aeons of history and the physical marks they left. From the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, through the Via Dolorosa, to the ancient city walls – built by generations of Israelite and foreign rulers – Jerusalem offers glimpses to ages past.

# Herodium

On the threshold of the Judean desert, south of Jerusalem, lies the magnificent Herodium – King Herod’s Palace. Part artificial mountain, part castle, part palace, the Herodium’s audacious size is breathtaking. From the mountain’s peak is visible the far reaches of the Judean desert, the Dead Sea and Jordan’s Moab Mountains. The King’s grave, the private theatre and the remains of the palace provide serious interest for history buffs, while the secret tunnels dug out by Jewish rebels tell a tale of bloody intrigue and ingenuity.

# Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

Just a stone’s throw from Masada is the stunning Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. The oasis offers a breath of refreshing air for any traveller weary from the desert heat. Ibexes and rabbits roam the ground between the various walking trails, along which are situated an ancient synagogue and a copper age temple. A dip in the cool water will provide ample refreshment after a hot day exploring the beautiful surroundings. Ein Gedi, beloved by all Israelis, is an absolute must-visit for all nature lovers.

# Dead Sea

Despite its name, the Dead Sea does contain some life – albeit none of the larger creatures usually found in marine environments – and its mud is world-renowned for rejuvenating the skin. Both of these factors are caused by the sea’s incredibly high levels of salt. At almost 34%, the high salinity makes for some unique swimming experiences: buoyed by the water, floating in the Dead Sea feels like an otherworldly experience. At 430 metres (1,410 feet) below sea level, the Salt Sea, as it’s otherwise known, is the lowest point anywhere on Earth – a great place to relax after exploring the surrounding desert.

# Beit Guvrin and the Caves of Maresha

The Beit Guvrin National Park is often called ‘land of a thousand caves’. Scholars believe the countless caves strewn around the area were originally quarries, but some seem also to have been burial caves. The Bell Caves especially deserve a visit – these impressive excavations reach a height of 25 metres (82 feet), 80 of them were at one time connected by underground passageways. The nearly intact Roman amphitheatre, and the impressive remains of a Crusader church and fortress are nearby and also worth your time.

# Makhtesh Ramon

Makhtesh Ramon, also know as Ramon Crater, is a unique geological formation of a kind found only in Israel and the Sinai peninsula of Egypt. The Makhtesh is some 40 kilometres long (25 miles), 2–10 kilometres wide and 500 metres deep, with a shape reminiscent of an elongated heart. Due to its isolated nature, Makhtesh Ramon is the least light-polluted place in Israel – a perfect location to view the Milky Way and astronomical events.

# Old Acre

The ancient port city of Acre, or Akko, in northern Israel lies in a natural harbour of exquisite beauty. Its strategic importance drew conquerors from around the world, from Alexander the Great, through the Crusaders who established their capital in it, to the Ottoman Empire. Napoleon, too, tried to take the port city, but was unsuccessful. In the 21st century, Acre dazzles visitors with its wonderful Middle Eastern market, offering fresh fish, clothing and more, and its theatre and music festivals.