Did you know that Palestine is a nation of undisturbed natural beauty? Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Palestine’s undeniable splendor won’t leave you disappointed. Today we’ll explore some of the major historical areas you’ll find in Holy Land, some just as beautiful as they are ancient. So, without further ado, here is our list
Hisham’s Palace
Hisham’s Palace was built between 720 and 750 AD. It is located about five miles north of the ancient city of Jericho. Also called Hirbet al-Mafjar, or “flower water ruins”, the ruins of this desert palace got their name from Hisham bin Abdel Malek (although there is some debate about that). Some argue that the décor and structure of the palace is perhaps more fitting for Hisham’s nephew and successor, Al-Walid bin Yazid. In any case, be sure to not miss the palace’s beautiful mosaics.
Ibrahimi Mosque
The Ibrahim mosque is one of the oldest and most influential holy sites in the world. It also carries the name of s the Cave of the Patriarchs or Tomb of the Patriarchs. The Abrahamic religions claim that the cave and adjoining field were purchased by Abraham as a burial plot. This series of caves located in the heart of the Old City of Hebron in Palestine’s southern West Bank. People believe it to be the burial site of Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Rebecca, and Leah. As a result, it is sacred to all three of the major Abrahamic religions.
Over the cave sits a large rectangular enclosure dating from the time of Herod the Great which Muslims later converted into the Ibrahimi Mosque. The interior is grand, ornate, and definitely a must see on any tour of Palestine.
Haram al Sharif
Muslims have great respect for Haram al Sharif. The site is home to both the famous golden dome known as The Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa mosque. One of the most revered mosques in Islam. Muslims consider it the third holiest site as the place from which the prophet Mohammed ascended to heaven. The compound is adjacent to the Wailing Wall, where crowds also gather daily for prayer.
Herodium
Herodium (in Arabic known as Jabal al-Fureidis or “Mountain of the Little Paradise”), is a truncated-cone-shaped hill about 12 kilometers (7.5 mi) south of Jerusalem and 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) southeast of Bethlehem in Palestine’s Judaean Desert. At 758 meters (2,487 ft) above sea level, it is the highest place in the Judean Desert.
Herod the Great built a palace-fortress and founded the small town of Herodium between 23 and 15 BC. Later on, here he was buried in 4 BC. However, King Herod’s legacy, though in ruins, still remains. Visitors will surely be awestruck of this unique fortress.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The church is the site of both the crucifixion and the burial site of Jesus of Nazareth. One of Christianity’s holiest sites in the world, the beauty of this church surpasses all else, including its history. Many people come to the church to caress the stone of Golgotha, the site where the cross was. Spirituality aside, anyone with a keen eye for architecture will adore the high-domed ceilings of this ancient structure.
Monastery of the Temptation
Located on the Mount of Temptations, the monastery was built on the mountain’s cliff side and blends perfectly into its façade. The Mount was named as such due to the temptation of Jesus by the Devil occurred during his 40 days of fasting. From a distance, it looks nearly impossible to navigate to the monastery itself, but once they figure it out, visitors are treated to spectacular views.
Gethsemane
Lying at the foot of the Mount of Olives is the Garden of Gethsemane, Jerusalem. According to the four Gospels of the New Testament, Jesus underwent the suffering in the garden and was arrested the night before his crucifixion. However, the surrounding garden has a lot of ancient olive trees, interspersed with lush green grass. The path through it belies the agony that Jesus went through here. Instead, it seems to give off such a peaceful ambiance that visitors walking through the garden seem to absorb the calm it provides.
Ruins of Sebastia
We couldn’t mention visiting Palestine without mentioning beautiful Nablus – home to the ruins of Sebastia. The site is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the West Bank Palestine. It is also the burial site of St John the Baptist. For a truly unique experience, be sure to check out the nearby Ottoman railway station before settling down for the night.
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