Visit Tiberias
Tiberias is one of the most beautiful cities in Israel and is located on the shore of the well-known Sea of Galilee. This ancient and important city is a starting point for tours in the Galilee, Golan region or for a vacation of several days. In Tiberias, there are many attractions and particularly pampering hotels. Comprehensive information about Tiberias is given here.
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The History of Tiberias
Tiberias is a city located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee in present-day Israel. It has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 2,000 years. Here is an overview of the history of Tiberias:
Ancient Times: Tiberias was founded in 20 CE by Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, and named after the Roman emperor Tiberius. It was built on the site of an earlier Jewish village called Rakkat. The city quickly became an important center for Jewish culture and learning. One of the nearby places is the Beit Shean National Park which presents dozens of impressive archaeological buildings and includes a 40-minute tour.
Roman and Byzantine Periods: During the Roman period, Tiberias flourished and became the capital of the Galilee region. It was known for its hot springs, which were used for bathing and medicinal purposes. The city was a hub of Jewish scholarship and the birthplace of the Jerusalem Talmud, a significant Jewish legal and ethical text.
Early Islamic Period: In the 7th century, Tiberias came under Arab rule following the Muslim conquest of the region. Under Islamic rule, the city continued to thrive as a center of Jewish learning and attracted scholars from different parts of the Muslim world.
Crusader and Mamluk Eras: Tiberias changed hands several times during the Crusades. It was captured by the Crusaders in 1099 but was retaken by Muslim forces in 1187. The city suffered considerable destruction during this period. In the late 13th century, Tiberias fell under Mamluk’s control, and its importance declined.
Ottoman Rule: From the 16th century onwards, Tiberias was part of the Ottoman Empire. The city’s Jewish population decreased during this time, but it remained an important site for Jewish pilgrimage due to its association with Jewish history and tradition.
Modern Era: Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, Tiberias came under British rule as part of the British Mandate for Palestine. During this period, Jewish immigration to the region increased, and Tiberias became a center for Zionist activity.
State of Israel: After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Tiberias became part of the new nation. It experienced significant growth and development, with a growing population and the construction of new neighborhoods and infrastructure.
Today, Tiberias is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical sites, hot springs, and its picturesque location on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. It continues to be a significant city for Jewish culture and pilgrimage, attracting visitors from around the world.
Important Places to Visit on a Trip to Tiberias
If you’re planning a trip to Tiberias, here are some important places you should consider visiting:
Sea of Galilee: The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinneret, is a beautiful freshwater lake and one of the major attractions in Tiberias. Take a boat ride on the lake, enjoy the stunning views, and learn about its significance in religious and historical contexts.
Tiberias Promenade: Stroll along the Tiberias Promenade, a picturesque waterfront boardwalk that stretches along the Sea of Galilee. It offers lovely views of the lake, various restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Hamat Tiberias National Park: Located just south of Tiberias, this national park is home to fascinating archaeological remains, including a well-preserved ancient synagogue with stunning mosaics. The park also features hot springs, bathing pools, and a museum that showcases the history of the site.
Mount Bereniki: Hike up Mount Bereniki to enjoy panoramic views of Tiberias, the Sea of Galilee, and the surrounding countryside. The mountain offers various trails of different difficulty levels, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Tomb of Maimonides: Visit the Tomb of Maimonides, also known as the Rambam Synagogue, which is dedicated to the famous Jewish philosopher and physician Moses Maimonides. The site is an important pilgrimage destination for Jews and offers insights into Maimonides’ life and contributions.
The Scots Church: Explore the historic Scots Church, built in the 19th century by Scottish missionaries. The church is known for its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows and holds religious services as well as cultural events.
Ancient Tiberias Excavations: Discover the archaeological excavations in Tiberias that reveal the ancient city’s past. Visit the remains of the city walls, Roman streets, and public buildings that provide insights into the urban life of Tiberias in antiquity.
Saint Peter’s Church: Visit Saint Peter’s Church, a Franciscan church built on the site believed to be where Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection. The church houses beautiful artwork and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection.
Amdur Fine Gallery: If you’re interested in art, visit the Amdur Fine Gallery in Tiberias. The gallery showcases contemporary Israeli art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, providing a glimpse into the local art scene.
Tiberias Hot Springs: Take a relaxing dip in Tiberias Hot Springs, known for its therapeutic properties. The springs offer various pools with different temperatures, and you can indulge in spa treatments and massages for a rejuvenating experience.
These are just a few highlights of what Tiberias has to offer. Exploring the city and its surroundings will provide you with a deeper understanding of its rich history, religious significance, and natural beauty. It is recommended to take a trip to Tiberias as part of a multi-day tour in Israel that includes the center and north of the country. Usually, there are trips that leave from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.