DAY 15

THURSDAY, MAY 9

Today we will explore the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert Region and its biblical and historical sites. After breakfast we will drive along the shores of the Dead Sea to visit one of the most spectacular sites in Israel – the 1,500 foot mountaintop fortress of Masada. Built by King Herod, Masada is famous for being the last stronghold of the Jewish rebellion against the Romans. We will ascend to Masada by cable car and discover the 1st century Synagogue, Herod’s Bathhouse, and many other sites.
We will continue along the shores of the Dead Sea for a look out on the oasis of Ein Gedi, where David hid in a cave when running from Saul (1 Samuel 23). It was here that David composed several of his Psalms.
Next, we will visit Qumran and walk through the ruins of this ancient Essene community. In this spot, an amazing cache of ancient biblical texts was discovered in 1947- commonly called the Dead Sea Scrolls.
From here we will ascend to Jerusalem– the Holy City of Zion.

Upon arriving in Jerusalem we will head to the top of the Mount of Olives to stand where the Lord ascended into heaven (Acts 1).
From the Mount of Olives we will take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city across the Kidron Valley to the Eastern Gate where the Prince of Peace will enter (Ezekiel 44).
We will pass by Pater Noster Church and visit Dominus Flevit Church, where “the Lord wept” as he beheld the Holy City.
We will take the Palm Sunday Road down to the Garden of Gethsemane where we will see 2,000 year old olive trees that date back to the time of Christ.

We will end our day and continue to our centrally located hotel for check-in and dinner. Our hotel is conveniently located walking distance from Old City Jerusalem as well as from the City Center. Use the free time to rest, relax, and enjoy your first evening in Jerusalem.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Jerusalem, Leonardo Plaza