A monotheistic religion, their major prophet is biblical Jethro, a Midianite priest and father-in-law to Moses, and his tomb in Israel near Tiberias is their holiest site.
The Druze have adopted the State of Israel as their country, establishing a Druze battalion as part of the IDF, which has, however been disbanded, as the Druze soldiers are now integrated into all of the various IDF corps, serving in elite combat units, and even as fighter pilots.
A peace-loving religion, in which men and women are equals, they are a dignified and cultured people, and are happy to share their heritage and history with others. They pledge loyalty to their host country, and are therefore dedicated to the State of Israel,
The Druze villages are situated mainly in the north of the country, stretching from the Haifa and Mt. Carmel region to the far Upper Galilee. Many of the villages have restaurants that sell traditional Druze cuisine, and markets that sell colorful wares and spices.
They traditionally produce olive oil and labane (a sour white cheese) which are served on special flat breads known as pita, and throughout the Galilee, as well as in all open air markets, one can find booths selling these wares to visitors and picnickers.
 

 
The Druze villages of Daliat–el –Carmel and Ussfia, are situated on Mt. Carmel, very near to Horn of Carmel, where according to the bible, Elijah the prophet vanquished the false prophets of Baal, and where today there is a Carmelite monastery. A visit to the open air market and main street shops is well worthwhile.
In the Upper Galilee the Druze villages include Yarka, which dates back to the pre-Christian era, as does Hurfesh, which during the Crusader period, belonged to the Teutonic Knights. Other villages include Rameh, Jat, Julis and more – all in the Upper Eat and West Galilee regions.
There are also several Druze villages on the Golan Heights, which were under Syrian rule before the Six Day War. True to their loyal nature and beliefs, the residents of these village still align with Syria, retaining status of permanent resident rather than citizenship, to Israel and so, unlike the Israeli Druze, they do not serve in the army.
 

 
We recommend that on your coming visit, you take part in a home experience with a Druze family, where you will enjoy a traditional meal and learn of the Druze religion and heritage.
Enriching and unforgettable.

 
Deriving its name from the Crusader fortress, “La Toron des Chevaliers”, remnants of which can be found to this day, or perhaps from its Christian namesake “Domus boni latronis” in reference to the thief hung by the Romans next to Jesus, it also known as site of the ancient Battle of Emmaus, fought by Judah the Maccabee in which he vanquished the invading Greek army, as well as the site of bloody battles fought and lost more recently, during the War of Independence in 1948.
Emmaus became a Christian holy site, reputed to be where Jesus appeared to some of his disciples after his resurrection, and excavations carried out in the area have uncovered, among others, the remains of a 6th century basilica and a Crusader church.
 

 
In the late nineteenth century, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem requested a monastery be established at Latrun. Some Trappist monks of French, German and Belgian origin, purchased land with a building, and founded Our Lady of the Sorrows, which they still inhabit. Assisted by Baron de Rothschild and the Carmel Mizrahi Winery, the monks established a vineyard and winery, which has become renowned for its wines that are sold at the monastery shop.
From 1948 to 1967 Latrun was a salient occupied by the Jordanian Legionnaires, with vantage points overlooking the valley, such as the Tegart Fort established by the British during the Palestinian mandate, from which snipers would target the road to Jerusalem, forcing the construction of a bypass route through Beit Shemesh.
 

 
After being liberated in 1967, the Tegart Fort became a museum and memorial for the IDF armored corps. The tanks on display are a favorite with children and adults alike, and climbing aboard is permitted and from there you can make your way to the nearby Mini-Israel Park which houses miniature replicas of all the important landmarks and buildings in Israel.
Latrun today is part of the Canada Park nature reserve, which is a wonderful place for picnics and having fun, as well as being home to archeological findings, dating back to biblical times.
 

 
All in all – an outing with a difference we will be happy to include on your next visit.

We’ll begin in the north at the Arbel Cliff overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Created by the Jordan Valley Rift, its soars to a height of 181 meters above sea level (over 380 meters above the Sea of Galilee, which sits at over 200 meters below sea level). A hike on this mountain offers amazing views as well as archaeological findings, such as an ancient synagogue and dwelling caves. Depending on how fit you are, there is a longer, more difficult climb, as well as an easier circular route accessible by car, making it a destination suitable for all the family.
 

 
Next we will take a hike through the Jerusalem Hills to the Ein Sataf spring. There are no less than 5 different trails you can choose from, so you are certain to find one that suits your mood. Winding through the terraced hills, filled with olive groves and almond trees, once you reach the spring you can drink from its fresh waters are dabble in the pool to cool off on a hot day. The views are breathtaking, and once you have concluded you hike, you can stop off at the nearby village of Ein Karem for a meal at one of its many restaurants.
 

 
Down south there are two amazing mountains to be climbed – Mt. Ardon in the Ramon Crater, and Mt. Karkom in the southwest Negev.
In the Ramon Crater climbing the Mt. Ardon is an amazing experience. A climb suitable only for the very fit, as you ascend you will see the amazing geological formations and colored sands of the Ramon Crater unfolding before you. The climb itself takes about 5 hours, so it is best to begin as early as possible to avoid the heat of midday, and therefore spending a night camping at the nearby Beerot campsite, which will add to the fun. A road less traveled, you will not be likely to meet many other hikers, which will add the awesome desert experience.
 

 
Mount Karkom, situated in the Negev desert, is accessible by safari vehicle or jeep only. Covered with many rock engravings and surrounded by the remnants of ancient altars and temples, dating back to over 2000 years BC, many scholars argue that it is the actual Mount Sinai mentioned in the bible. Whether it is or not, no doubt a trek up its slopes, and seeing these engravings, will provide an experience that is second to none. Due to weather conditions, it is recommended as a destination more suitable for the late autumn, winter and early spring times of the year, although if you are here during the summer, start early and take along sufficient water and protection, and you will not have to forgo this amazing and thought evoking destination.
 

 
So all you hikers and trail lovers, give us a call and we will make sure you have an experience you will never forget.

Modern day Israel boasts several artist enclaves – the most renowned of which are the Safed artists’ quarter, the Jaffa artists’ colony, the Jerusalem Hutzot Hayotzer artists center and the Ein Hod artists village, each unique in structure, location and character.

Safed is one of the oldest towns in Israel, dating back even to biblical times. Its picturesque ancient alleyways, high altitude and breathtaking views, as well as its mystical ambiance as the Kabbalah city, make it an interesting and unique destination. The artists’ quarter is located in the old city, which also houses many ancient synagogues, and the many art and craft works on display and for sale, contribute to making it a one of a kind destination in the Upper Galilee.

The Jaffa artist’s colony is housed in the renovated ancient city, adjacent to the Jaffa port. Jaffa also dates back to biblical times, and was once the main port of entry to Israel. Meandering through its winding alleyways that overlook the Mediterranean Sea, you pass by countless galleries, works of art, restaurants and shops, giving a sense of old and new living together in harmony.

Hutzot Hayotzer artists’ center in Jerusalem is housed in renovated buildings that were left derelict in the no-mans-land region near the Old City of Jerusalem, from1948 to 1967. Designated as studios and workshops for artists and artisans, there is an annual arts and crafts festival held there for 2 weeks during the summer. The festival, which has gained renown and momentum over the years, hosts hundreds of artists, including some from abroad.

The Ein Hod artists’ village is unique in that all of the residents are artists from all fields of art – painting, sculpting, pottery, glass, dance, music and more.
 

 
Situated on the Carmel Mountain range, near to the town of Atlit, is has been a small settlement since Crusader times, and there is even evidence of prehistoric dwellings in the region. Today’s village occupies the site of the Arab settlement that was evacuated during the War of Independence, and it is home to the famous Janco Dada art museum. Almost all the artists have studios and galleries open to the public, offering tours and workshops for whoever is interested.

Whether you are an avid art lover or not, seeing Israel through the eyes of its artists is an amazing way to visit the country. We will be happy to take you on this fabulous journey.

]]> https://www.goldcarpettours.com/artist-colonies-in-israel/feed/ 0 https://www.goldcarpettours.com/the-jezreel-valley/ https://www.goldcarpettours.com/the-jezreel-valley/#respond Thu, 14 May 2020 06:56:40 +0000 https://www.goldcarpettours.com/?p=4692 Lying between the Carmel mountain range to the west, the Jordan Valley to the east, and bordered by the Lower Galilee Mountains to the north and Samarian Mountains to the south, the Jezreel Valley is the largest fertile region in Israel.

In ancient times it was part of the Via Maris (Sea Route) which travelled from Egypt in the south to Syria in the north, with archaeological signs of settlements having been found tracing as far back as the Bronze Age and earlier.

During the reign of the Roman Empire it became less travelled when the Romans paved the Shore Route, which ran from Egypt in the south and along the coastal plain, via Ashkelon, Caesarea and Acre to Lebanon and Syria in the north, replacing the Via Maris. The lack of habitation turned the valley into marshland and swamps.

Reclamation of the valley commenced in the 19^th century, first by the Templers, who established the villages of Alonei Abba and Bethlehem of the Galilee, and then by the first Jewish pioneers returning to Palestine, who bought lands and founded villages.

A fitting beginning to a tour of this fabulous region is from the Carmelite monastery on Mt. Carmel, from which there are magnificent views of the Jezreel Valley reaching as far as the eye can see.

Continue with a visit to Megiddo overlooking the Plain of Armageddon (also in the Jezreel Valley), whose archeological excavations have unearthed 26 layers of settlements dating as far back as the Chalcolithic era.

Dotted with agricultural settlements as well as a main city, Afula, there are many places of interest to visit as you cross the valley from east to west, such as the magnificent mosaic from an ancient synagogue found at Kibbutz Beit Alpha, or a museum that tells the story of the first settlers and the War of Independence at Kibbutz Merhavia, as well as the Park of Springs and Mt. Gilboa (see our Facebook post), which also provides magnificent views of the valley from the south east.

On the way back you can make your way to Mt. Tabor, which is part of the Lower Galilee mountain range, bordering the valley from the northeast, and the biblical site of the battle between the Israelites and the Canaanite King of Hazor, and site of the Transfiguration of Jesus. In addition to its historical and religious significance, Mt. Tabor provides yet another magnificent view of the valley.

A visit to this region, rich in vegetation and history, where old and new live together side by side, is an unforgettable experience. Contact us and we will be happy to make it a reality.

Over a century ago the first victory by Australian and New Zealand (ANZAC) troops, part of the British Empire’s army, was attained over the Turkish forces in then Palestine, which marked a turn in the outcome of WWI. The memory of those times are evident everywhere along what is today known as the ANZAC trail, which enables visitors today to relive those times.

The fighting took place in the Beer Sheba and Negev region of the country. The armies at that time were comprised principally of cavalry, brandishing rifles and bayonets, and flanked by artillery, and camps had to provide barracks or tents for soldiers, and of course corrals for the horses.
During WWI horses played a major role, not only in cavalry charges, but for pulling supply carts and ambulances as well as for reconnaissance missions. The bonds formed between horses and soldiers were very strong, and the loss of horses in the war to artillery and machine gun fire, as well as disease and injury, was critical to the troops. Ultimately the inability of the German forces to replenish their horses was a major factor in their defeat. (A wonderful depiction of this can be seen in the 2011 film “War Horse” by Steven Spielberg)

Today one can retrace the ANZAC trail by beginning in the lowlands region of the country, at Kibbutz Beeri, where a monument has been erected to commemorate the troops and their victory. As the drive continues, a stop can be at the Eshkol Park, to visit the restored portion of the railway line that was built by the Ottomans and later extended by the British following their victory.

The trail continues further to Beer Sheba, to the park of the Australian Soldier, which is a memorial and recreational park, with a statue commemorating the Light Brigade, and picnic areas, where people can come a spend time.
Beer Sheba is also home to the British Cemetery where most of the ANZAC soldiers that lost their lives here are buried, as well as to the ANZAC museum, which recreates some of the battles and tells the story.

The southernmost point of the trail is in the Negev, passing Khalassa, Bir Asluj and Bir Mashash. At Bir Asluj there is a small museum, with photographs and written documents from soldiers that participated in the war, which is very moving to visit.

We will be happy to take you ion this moving and historically interesting journey to a beautiful region of the country on your next visit to Israel.

All in all the Templers established seven colonies in Israel, and the majority of their houses and buildings still remain intact and for the most part inhabited to this day.

The Templers brought with them knowledge of architecture and introduced European style houses with red tiled roofs to the region. Their colonies were built with wide main streets lined with trees. They established agriculture – growing citrus fruits and vineyards, paved roads, introduced new industries – such as tool making, hotels, a newspaper and even a bank, and in general are considered the founders of many of the basic activities that were necessary for the development of Israel. At their peak, the Templer population numbered 2000.

The first settlement established by the Templers was in Haifa, and it is known to this day as the German Colony. At the foot of the amazing Bahai gardens (which were created to spill out into the wonderful avenue created by the Templers), the beautifully designed buildings serve as charming boutique hotels, restaurants or shops, because of their quality and European essence. 

The houses of Templer settlement Sarona, the second colony they established, and which can be considered the origins of Tel Aviv, served for many years as army headquarters in the city because of their location and quality. In recent years the buildings have been restored and moved in their entirety to recreate the original settlement, which has now become the very trendy and popular Sarona recreational and entertainment center. A visit to this historical modern complex provides a glimpse into their lives. 

The sect also established a colony in the Refaim valley of Jerusalem, with the same characteristic European style houses and buildings, serving today as one of Jerusalem’s trendy neighborhoods, retaining its original charm and a setting for many cafes, boutiques and hotels.

Other Templer settlements have become picturesque villages and agricultural settlements, such as Bethlehem of the Galilee, which is also renowned for its spices farm, and where some of the original houses and buildings are opened to the public for visits by their modern day inhabitants. 

Unfortunately the Templers themselves are no longer in Israel. Around the time of WWII, due to their German origins and later due to some of their members being affiliated with the Nazi party, they were considered “hostile citizens” and deported, with many settling in Australia.

To our delight, around two years ago, our company had the pleasure of hosting a couple from Australia, who are ancestors of the Templers, on a tour, which of course included visiting their many settlements, as well as other sites. We were interested to learn from them that the Templers hold an annual get together in Israel, thereby retaining their ties to the country.

We will make sure you see at first hand this wonderful legacy on your next trip to Israel. 

Comprising almost half of the territory of Israel, the Negev desert is its least populated area, and home to unique geological formations, ancient history and modern day miracles. 

Geology

The most famous geological formations of the Negev Desert are the Makhteshim or craters.  Unlike craters created through impact or collision, the Negev and Sinai craters are formed by erosion, and are unique and typical to these two regions only in the world. These craters are characteristically bowl shaped and drained by a single creek. The outer walls comprised of harder rocks, such as limestone and dolomite, while the softer sandstone and gypsum have eroded exposing the cliffs. The Negev desert has 5 such craters, the largest being the Ramon Crater, which unlike the others is actually drained by 2 creeks.  There is nothing more fun and exciting than taking a ranger or ATV ride through the crater, visiting the ammonite wall of fossils, or the carpentry with its log shaped rocks, or its many hidden nooks and crannies, as was experienced by three adventurous ladies, who spent several hours exploring the sites.

History

The Negev desert has a rich history that goes back to ancient Egypt. The pharaohs mined copper in the once rich mines of Timna, currently a national park which is home to some magnificent sandstone rock formations, the most renowned being Solomon’s Pillars and the Mushroom Rock. Later it was home to the Nabateans Incense route, along which camel caravans transported priceless goods from one country to another. Traces of the Nabatean civilization are present throughout the desert, with several settlements, such as Mamshit and Ovdat that have been excavated, revealing their advanced knowledge of desert water systems and architecture, as well as evidence of their travels and hospitality. Today you can take a camel ride near the Nabatean city of Mamshit, and if you are visiting during the festival of Passover (Easter) you will be able to enjoy visiting a recreated Nabatean market selling wares of old. 

Modern day

Today the Negev desert is a place of modern day miracles – ranging from solar farms producing green energy, farmsteads that grow vineyards and make boutique wines, a farm that breeds alpacas, and farms that specialize in providing tranquil retreats, where you can meditate or just enjoy the rejuvenating energies of the desert, with its clear air and starlit skies. In addition to the agriculture and special farming methods developed, the region’s capital – the city of Beer Sheba – is a modern bustling metropolis, with a university that has international academic acclaim, a hi-tech park and cultural institutions. 

So on your next visit – make sure to ask for this amazing region to be included in your tour itinerary and take part in the adventures it provides. 

The Crusaders were knights on a mission to establish Christendom, rallied by popes and fueled with religious fervor, they set out from Europe to liberate Jerusalem.

Although the Crusaders governed most of the Holyland for a period of less than 200 years, which in historical terms is rather short, their mark can be seen almost everywhere.

The Crusaders in Jerusalem

Although the walls of the city are from a much later period, there is no mistaking the Crusader presence when walking around the Old City. From King David’s Tomb and the cenacle, to the remnants of the German hospice on Mt. Zion; and from the magnificent Church of St. Anne, which is an intact and original Crusader building that was not destroyed but rather converted into a school (madrasa ) under Moslem rule and which still retains the Arabic sign, to the remnants of an underground Crusader hospital run by the Hospitaller Knights in the Muristan area of the Christian Quarter, uncovered by archeological excavations held in 2013, and of course the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, with its Crusader façade.

As you walk around you can imagine the streets teeming with pilgrims, residents and various orders of knights, the more renowned being the Templars (who were an elite warrior force and guards of the temple – hence their name) and Hospitallers.

The Crusaders in Acre

Following the conquest of Jerusalem in 1187 by Saladin, the Crusaders established themselves in Acre, constructing a fortress, the remnants of which have been restored. Located on the sea and near the port, the Templars, who by this time had become a formidable force and very rich, constructed a tunnel that could be used as an escape route and a hidden means of entering the castle. The tunnel as well as much of the castle are accessible and can be visited today. In the spirit of reviving the Crusader kingdom, the restored castle and tunnel provide the perfect backdrop for an authentic knights’ experience, in the form of medieval style feasts, stalls, and jousting matches that are provided for visiting guests.

The Crusaders in Atlit

Construction of the Chateau Pelerin or Atlit Castle was commenced by the Templars in 1218 to fortify their hold in the Holyland. It could hold over 5000 troops and its position on a promontory flanked by the sea on two sides, made it difficult to siege or conquer. After the fall of Acre, it remained the last stronghold of the Crusaders, who remained there until defeated by the Mamelukes in 1291. The castle was destroyed by an earthquake in 1837, and has never been restored. Today it can only be seen from afar, as it is the site of a military base in Israel. The ancient cemetery beside it is open to the public.

So now, all those whose imaginations were captured by “Assassin Creed” and “The Da Vinci Code” can visit Israel and bring their stories to life by taking the Crusader route. Let us know, and we will make it happen.

During our many years of work we have met many individuals and groups of visitors to Israel, each leaving a unique impression, wonderful pictures and memories. Some, however leave a special mark, such as the group lead by Mary Abiola, a mark we would like to share. 

This group of pilgrims, organized by Mary Abiola, comprised of several pastors and members of various church communities, mainly from the UK, but also from the USA. The 27 group members came together for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in mid-February. They visited Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Jericho and the Dead Sea, as well as Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. 

Wherever they went they spread joy, love, gratitude and appreciation for God, Jesus and all the good in their lives. 

For many of the group this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and a time to thank and praise the lord for all the blessings bestowed on them during the past year. Many of the group members are very involved in their communities at home, providing voluntary and charity funded outreach programs for the needy. Their joy and appreciation at being able to provide these services to their communities is expressed in their testimonials of thanks and praise, in which each recounts the moments of good fortune bestowed upon them. 

Almost all of the members are of Nigerian origin, and were immigrants in their respective countries before receiving citizenship. They speak among each other in their native language, always reverting back to English. 

Every moment and occasion is a reason to sing and dance. They are experts at turning lemons into lemonade. For instance, on their way down to the Dead Sea and Jericho, they were stuck in a traffic jam for over an hour, due to the road having been blocked off by the police for security reasons. Instead of sitting in the bus waiting for the road to clear, they seized the opportunity, got out and began to sing and dance in the road. Many others stuck in the same traffic jam, were inspired to go out and see them, and they set a joyous mood for everyone. 
 

 
We are thankful at having had the good fortune to host this group, which was guided by our amazing tour guide – Meir More. His in-depth knowledge, attentiveness and patience, which was greatly appreciated by the group, helped to make their visit to the holy land truly unforgettable.