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

 

ARomanvilla.jpg (10508 bytes)

 

20chillyatseph.jpg (8339 bytes)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.

22romanroad.jpg (6596 bytes)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.

21monalisa.jpg (3458 bytes)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.

23oldakkostreet.jpg (9429 bytes)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.

 

24oldakkobyundgcity.jpg (8614 bytes)

 

 

 

 

 

25backstreet.jpg (9867 bytes)The side streets and backstreets of Akko are beautiful and mysterious.  Real people live here.  They seem friendly and are kind to visitors. 

 

 

 

 

 

26friedmannbakery.jpg (6615 bytes)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.

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We did stroll through the maket but then headed across the city to the waterfront.

 

29akkoharbor.jpg (5826 bytes)What a beautiful view.  It was gorgeous. 

 

 

 

 

31wornoutgrpakko.jpg (9498 bytes)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.

30sunsetakkohar.jpg (4553 bytes)

 

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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