Battles of Israel Tour: Journey Through History's Most Fateful Battlefields
"For You have girded me with strength for battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me." (Psalm 18:39)
This land had been fought over throughout its long history and this tour will take us to the sites of some of the most fateful battles and provide fresh insights into the tactics and outcomes.
Day 1 – Welcome to Israel.
Your journey begins as you arrive in Israel. After a warm reception, you'll be transferred to Tel Aviv for an orientation session. Enjoy a delicious dinner and relax overnight in Tel Aviv.
Day 2 – Tel Aviv: The First Hebrew City:
Today, we delve into Israel’s 1948 War of Independence. Begin your day at the Palmach Museum, an interactive experience that follows the journey of a small group of young Israeli fighters. Next, explore the Ayalon Institute, where we'll descend into the underground halls of a secret bullet factory.
Continue the adventure by walking along the Independence Route in the bustling city of Tel Aviv. We'll also visit the ancient port city of Jaffa, a historic entry point to the Holy Land since Biblical times. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Tel Aviv.
Day 3 – Along the Via Maris Road:
Travel along Via Maris, "the Road along the Mediterranean Sea," as we head north toward Caesarea Maritima, an elaborate city built by King Herod. This site later became a focal point for Crusader and Ottoman cities.
Our journey continues to Mount Carmel, where the Prophet Elijah challenged the 450 prophets of Baal. We'll visit Tel Megiddo, the site of Armageddon, and end the day at the River Jordan, where it flows out of the Sea of Galilee—a meaningful baptism site. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias.
Day 4 – Ancient and Modern Wars:
Northern Israel, particularly the Galilee, has witnessed many of history's most famous battles. We visit Tel Hatzor, strategically located between ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, and conquered by Joshua. Nearby, explore the Horns of Hittin, where Saladin defeated the Crusaders in 1187, ending the Crusader Kingdom.
At Caesarea Philippi, tour the remains of a Greco-Roman city and the place where Jesus asked, "Who do you say that I am?" Finally, we'll visit the region of the Golan Heights, the site of bitter battles during the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias.
Day 5 – Old Testament Battles:
As we journey south toward Jerusalem, we'll ascend Mount Tabor, the site of the epic battle between the Israelites led by Barak and the Canaanites led by Sisera. Next, we visit Mount Gilboa, where King Saul and his sons fell in battle.
Continue to Beit She'an to view the magnificent remains of 6,000 years of history. As the day ends, we arrive in Jericho, where Joshua toppled the city's walls. Upon arrival in Jerusalem, check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 6 – New Testament Prophecies:
Today, explore the Old City of Jerusalem, visiting sites mentioned in the New Testament, including the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Via Dolorosa. Pause at the Lion’s Gate, where the Israeli army entered the Old City of Jerusalem during the 1967 war. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 7 – The Approaches to Jerusalem:
Many critical battles for Jerusalem were fought outside the city limits. Today's tour takes us to these sites, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. Visit Nebi Samuel, traditionally the burial site of the biblical Samuel, and Radar Hill, a strategic British outpost until 1948.
Explore the Latrun Tank Museum, home to an impressive collection of tanks used by the IDF, and conclude at Ammunition Hill, where IDF forces fought in the 1967 War. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 8 – Historic Jerusalem:
Return to the Old City of Jerusalem on the final day of our tour. Walk on the Temple Mount and explore the Southern Steps, which provided access to the Temple Mount in Biblical times. At the City of David, go underground to walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, built to secure Jerusalem’s water supply during sieges.
Visit the Friends of Zion Museum, which tells the inspiring stories of Christians who played a key role in the return of Zion. The tour concludes at the Garden Tomb before your departure for the flight home.
This "Battles of Israel Tour" offers a profound journey through the history and prophecy that have shaped Israel, providing an unforgettable experience at each site.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What should I bring with me on the Battles of Israel Tour?
It's recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle, as many of the tour sites involve outdoor exploration. Additionally, bringing a modest outfit for visiting religious sites is advisable.
Are the historical sites visited on this tour accessible for individuals with mobility challenges?
While many sites are accessible, some locations, such as ancient ruins and certain mountainous areas, may have uneven terrain or require moderate walking. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility options before booking.
Will there be opportunities for personal reflection or religious practices during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to significant religious and historical sites, where there will be opportunities for personal reflection, prayer, or religious practices, particularly at locations like the River Jordan, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Garden Tomb.
Embark On This Tour
The "Battles of Israel Tour" is more than just a journey through historic battlefields; it's a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Israel's past, where ancient prophecies and modern history intersect. From the vibrant streets of Tel Aviv to the sacred sites of Jerusalem, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the pivotal moments that have defined this land.
As you walk in the footsteps of warriors, prophets, and kings, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the enduring significance of Israel's battles—both ancient and modern. This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a profound connection to the history of this remarkable land.