

ISRAEL DIARY
MONDAY AFTERNOON, JANUARY 12, 1998
SEPPHORIS TO TIBERIAS

Sepphoris, known as Zippori, was the
traditional birthplace of Mary. It is located on highway 79 about 2.5 miles west of
Nazareth.
A Jewish community existed at this ancient site from the early first
century BC through the middle ages. The Jewish high court was located here during
the 3rd century.
Although not mentioned in the New Testament, Jesus almost assuredly walked
on these Roman streets.
This is an overpowering site. The
evidence of antiquities is awesome. The sight of Nazareth on the hill and the
historical wealth of this city presents a powerful image of Roman times. This
location is an important place for serious pilgrims to visit. I always make sure
that I get to Sepphoris.
On the hilltop at the site there is a Roman
villa. This picture is mosiac on the floor of the dining room. The picture
doesn't do the mosaic justice.
I enjoy this pastoral setting and as long as you are up wind from the
Moshav's dairy, the smells are fresh and pleasant.
We loaded the bus after a lingering walk from the Roman street, several
gulping drinks and binging on ice cream bars, and a few others making quick work in the
souvenir shop. We headed west to the Israel Coast and Old Akko.
We
got off the bus near the El-Jazzar Mosque and began our city walk. I love walking
through the ancient streets of Akko. It is a beautiful place and an exciting
experience. Join us in a few of the views.

The side streets and backstreets of Akko
are beautiful and mysterious. Real people live here. They seem friendly and
are kind to visitors.
These
folks at the bakery remembered us from November when we told them we were Chris
Friedmann's friends. Steve brought greetings back to Chris.
We especially enjoy the market but it was getting near the end of the day
and it was closing.


We did stroll through the maket but then headed across the city to the
waterfront.
What a beautiful view. It was
gorgeous.
We
had been out and on the road and sightseeing since early in the morning. The day was
ending and we were a long ride from Tiberias and worn out. It was a great first full
day. I think that even our guide Gilla was tired.

The ride to Tiberias was comfortable and uneventful. I love riding
across the Galilee in the late afternoon.
We arrived at our hotel, the Jordan River at about 7 p.m. It was a
welcome sight. They messed up our reservations but straightened them out.
There are other more enjoyable accomodations in the Tiberias area. I would strongly
recommend the Ron Beach or Nof Ginosar. If you are looking for an adventure and
don't mind a little longer ride each day, Ein Gev Holiday Village on the east side of the
Sea of Galilee near Kursi is a delightful place to stay. Their food is excellent.
Thank you Lord for this first full day in the Holy Land. It was
wonderful.
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