3 Biblical Sites of Israel You Need to Stop by on Your Next Trip

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For centuries, Israel has been considered the Land of the Bible. Even though it is one of the most technologically advanced and thriving countries in the world, it still preserves a rich history and culture that has endured through both Biblical times and the modern day. It is no surprise that you will find many sites that are linked to crucial religious events throughout history. 

From the birthplace of Jesus to the place where he is believed to be crucified, let's walk through three of the many Biblical sites in Israel.

Jesus's birthplace is undoubtedly one of Israel's best places to visit. Bethlehem can be reached by approximately a 90-minute drive from Jerusalem's city center. The city is home to numerous religious places and churches that make for great tourist attractions.

The city is mentioned several times in the Bible. The earliest mention marks the city as the place for Rachel's Tomb. Rachel is believed to be the matriarch who was buried when she passed while giving birth to Benjamin.

According to the Gospels of Luke and Matthew, Bethlehem is also the birthplace of Jesus. The exact place in Bethlehem where Jesus was born is unknown, but it is believed to be an area preserved in the Church of Nativity, one of the oldest churches that have survived for over a thousand years.

To access the birthplace, you must walk through the small entrance called The Door of Humility and follow the path until you reach the Grotto of the Nativity. This spot has long been believed to be the birthplace of Jesus.

Mount Olives has a lot of significance in both Judaism and Christianity. It has been used as a graveyard by the Jews for more than 3000 years, and many religious figures are believed to be buried there. This includes prophets and other rabbinical figures.

The Mount of Olives is mentioned in the New Testament and is believed to be the exact place where Jesus stood as he wept over Jerusalem. When visiting this somber and sad spot, you can also visit the Olive Trees of Gethsemane. The garden houses some of the oldest trees in the world and is also believed to be where Jesus prayed his last prayer before being crucified.

The Holy Sepulchre is mentioned in all four books of the Gospel. It is home to Cavalry, which is believed to be the place where Jesus was crucified. It also houses the Tomb of Christ, which is the place where he is believed to be buried and resurrected. 

The three communities that administer the church are the Greek, Franciscan, and Armenian. Priests are available to hear confessions and administer the sacrament of Reconciliation. The church's awe-inspiring beauty and the devotion you get at The Holy Sepulchre cannot be found anywhere else.

Israel is home to many Biblical sites. There are many places in Israel where you can explore the Christian history of the country. Places such as Bethlehem, the Mountain of Olives, and the Church of Holy Sepulchre all have a special place in Christianity.