The Israeli city of Nazareth is located in Northern Israel in the heart of the Galilee region. Approximately 25 km from the Sea of Galilee and 9 km from Mount Tabor, it is the largest Arab city in Israel inhabited by Christian and Muslim Israeli Arabs. There are also many Jewish Israelis living in Upper Nazareth.
Nazareth is regarded as “the Cradle of Christianity” because it was here, according to tradition, that the angel Gabriel announced to Mary the news of her conception by the Holy Spirit’s power. It was also the place where Jesus spent the years of his childhood and youth. Therefore, most people who come on a tour of the Holyland will visit Nazareth.
About 2000 years ago, Nazareth was a small Jewish village that became a Christian stronghold during the Byzantine period and soon became a very popular place of pilgrimage because of its connection to Jesus and the Virgin Mary. Soon the building of churches began, the first being that of the Church of the Annunciation, which was placed at the site of the home of Joseph and Mary. Many churches were built, destroyed, and rebuilt over the years as the rulers changed from Christian to Muslim.
The 19th century bought about renewed interest as Christians returned to take up residence in Nazareth and rebuilt the churches and monasteries. Today there are approximately 30 churches as well as mosques and ancient synagogues. The Basilica of the Annunciation heads the list of places to see. It is modern and was consecrated in 1969 after being built over previous structures from the Byzantine and Crusader periods. The dome of the Basilica rises 55 meters high and is shaped like a Madonna lily which symbolizes the Virgin Mary.
Other places to visit in Nazareth are St Joseph’s Church, located next to the Basilica of the Annunciation. This church has an underground cavern that is believed to contain Joseph’s workshop. The Synagogue Church is traditionally thought to have been the original synagogue where Jesus studied, prayed, and preached when he was young.
The Nazareth Village is well worth a visit. It is a reconstruction of the Jewish lifestyle at the time of Jesus and what Nazareth was like 2000 years ago. Authentically dressed inhabitants greet visitors, and the parables of Jesus are brought to life in their original setting.
A tour of Nazareth’s old city is completed by a visit to the market with its colorful souvenir, artwork, spice, and lovely fabric stalls and enjoying some of the local foods. Your authentic Middle Eastern experience will be complete.
Accommodation is available in Christian Hostels and excellent Hotels to serve the needs of the tourists who visit the area in large numbers, especially around Christmas time when the city is captivating with beautiful decorations and its holy ambiance. In addition, many restaurants serve delicious foods that attract visitors throughout the year.
