Israels Unexplored Heritage Sites: From History To Tourism

Israel is comprised of the ancient city of Jerusalem and modern city of Tel Aviv, but between these two well-known sites are less-known heritage sites that hold stories of thousands of years to tell. Spanning from the ancient town of Acre in the north to Be’er Sheva in the southern deserts, the remnants definitely illustrate the narrative of thousands of years of civilizations that nurtured on this land. These places have been a matter of importance for archeologists and historians; however, now, tourists from across the world have been enchanted and enthusiastic to sense the culture and heritage of primeval times. Here are a few of the unexplored heritage sites in the hall of fame in the land of Israel.

1. Acre

Market, Historical Landmark

Among one of the primordial cities in Israel, Acre (Akko) is a Crusader-era port town, situated in the north of the country. The coastal town is a unique melting point of East and West, well complemented with magnificent structures, testaments to the Crusader and Ottoman periods. Mosques and Christian monasteries alongside underground passages and high-walled alleys make it mysterious and unique to explore. The remarkable fortified city walls, Turkish baths, halls built by Knights Templar and Crusader buildings are the undeniable examples of historic architectural proficiency.

2. Abu Gosh

Market

There is no more of a quintessential example of coexistence of humanity than the village of Abu Gosh, on the outskirts of Jerusalem. The Muslim village is home to a Romanesque and early Gothic-style 12th-century Crusader church, today a Benedictine Monastery, where Jews, Christians and Muslims sing prayers together in Hebrew. The monastery is run by a group of priests and nuns with shared co-operation with the local Muslim population, which makes the place unique across the region. Notably, the Abu Gosh village, built during Ottoman period, has also become Israel’s hummus capital in recent years.

3. Be'er Sheva

Market

TurkishrailstationHundred year old Turkish Railway Station, Be’er Sheva

Apart from the walled city from the Israelite monarchic period in Tel Be’er Sheva, a UNESCO Heritage Site, the desert capital comprises numerous sites of historic importance from the Ottoman Period to the British mandate. Founded more than more 3700 years ago, when the biblical father of the Jewish people, Abraham, arrived there, present-day Be’er Sheva houses centuries-old structures such as the Governor’s House, now the Negev Museum of Art, and Government House, today a police station. The Turkish railway station and hundred-year-old traditional Bedouin market are among the main attractions, which can easily take visitors back to the monarchic-cum-colonial era.

5. Katsrin

Market, Historical Landmark

Among lesser-known but imperative heritage sites is the Talmudic-era town Katsrin, located in the heart of Golan Heights and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. The town embraces the archeological sites of the Middle Bronze Age, vindicating the 4,000-year-old Jewish settlements. Amidst the serenity of the Golan, it is easy to imagine the prosperity of ancient civilizations that once inhabited the town, which boasts a magnificent 6th-century synagogue. The remains of the ancient village and reconstructed homes definitely transport visitors to the Talmudic alleyways.

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