In the mountains of the Upper Galilee in Israel, lies one of the four holy cities of Judaism, the town of Safed (Pronounced Tsfat), spelled in many different ways that sometimes confuse (Safed, Zefat, Tsfat, Zfat, Safad, Safes, Safet, amongst others). The other three holy cities are Jerusalem, Hebron, and Tiberias.
Safed is situated 900 meters above Sea Level and is the highest city in Israel, experiencing the coldest winters. Due to its high elevation, there are magnificent views in all directions, the Golan Heights in the east, Mount Hermon and Lebanon in the north, Mount Meron and the valley of Amud in the west, and in the south, Tiberias and the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret). Safed has become a popular holiday resort for both Israelis and visitors from abroad due to its mild climate and attractive surroundings. Safed is filled with places to see religious, historical, and modern-day sites that will keep visitors endlessly entertained.
In the 17th century, Safed became the center of Jewish Mysticism (Kabala) when the Kabbalist Mystics lived, taught, and studied in the city. Today Safed is a charming location with its mix of spiritual people and artists and the thousands of new immigrants from the USSR and Ethiopia who have made it their home in recent years.
Visit the Citadel at the top of the city, which has ruins dating back to Crusader times, or stroll through the Jewish Quarter with its ancient and quaint alleyways with intriguing niches and superb synagogues with their ancient Torah scrolls and pleasing decorations.
Visit the Artists quarter in what used to be the Arab Quarter of the city, where artists live and work in beautiful old houses that line the narrow alleyways to view their paintings and artifacts set in window displays.
To see evidence of more modern history, visit the model of the Davidka weapon that the Jewish defenders of the city used during the war of independence in 1948. Visit the site of the very long staircase which the British used to separate the Jewish and Arab quarters of the city before the Jewish State was established.
Safed has exciting museums to visit and attractive cobbled streets to stroll along and browse through the many shops and galleries available. This fascinating city has something of interest for all.
Safed’s setting in the north of Israel is perfect for excursions and day trips. Outdoor adventures include a trip to the Hula Nature Reserve, many hiking routes in the area, and Wineland tours available. In addition, a day out in Tiberias swimming in the Kinneret is a popular choice amongst many pastimes available in the area.
There are various hotels and B&B’s to choose from in Safed that will suit all tastes.
