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January 22nd – February 4th, 2027
Guided by Scott Palmer
Luther S. Palmer (Scott), also known by his YouTube channel as Watcher Palmer, loves Israel and the Middle East. Always looking for Christ in all things. Brother Palmer is a student of the scriptures, and is always looking for the Signs of the Second Coming of our Saviour.
Brother Palmer and his wife, Suzanne, have traveled and visited extensively in Israel. They love both the culture and the people. And they feel blessed to know so many wonderful people they have met on their journeys.
Tour Includes
Separate Costs
Itinerary
Day 1 – January 22nd
Today depart from home and start your journey for the Holy Land!
Day 2 – January 23rd
Arrival in the Holy Land and transfer to the hotel. For those who arrive early enough, there will be a short tour to Jaffa, where the story of Jonah takes place.
A Welcome Dinner will be provided tonight.
Overnight: Netanya/Tel Aviv
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 3 – January 24th
Caesarea was built by Herod as a major port and hub of commerce. Significantly, it contributes to the tapestry of the Holy Land as the place where Peter baptized Cornelius, the first Gentile convert to Christianity (Acts 10). Additionally, the Apostle Paul was imprisoned here before being sent to Rome (Acts 23-26).
Key Sites:
Amphitheater: The Caesarea Amphitheater in Israel was designed for various forms of entertainment, including gladiatorial contests, chariot races, and theatrical performances. With its impressive architectural features, including seating for thousands of spectators, a central arena, and elaborate underground chambers, the amphitheater showcases the opulence and sophistication of Roman engineering and culture during its time in the Holy Land.
Crusader’s Wall: After the First Crusade to the Holy Land, the Crusaders captured Caesarea in 1101, under the leadership of Baldwin I, King of Jerusalem. Recognizing Caesarea’s strategic importance as a port city, they invested significant resources to fortify it, including the construction of massive defensive walls. The Crusader Gate is a notable feature, with remnants of the original arch and defensive mechanisms still visible.
Mount Carmel, located in northern Israel, is a stunning mountain range with deep historical, religious, and ecological significance, making it a must-see on our tour of the Holy Land.
Most famously, Mount Carmel is associated with the prophet Elijah, as recounted in 1 Kings, 18. On its slopes, Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to a contest to prove the power of the true God. After the prophets of Baal failed to summon fire by the power of their god, Elijah prayed and God sent fire from heaven to consume the sacrifice. This dramatic showdown occurred at a site traditionally identified as El-Muhraqa (the place of the burning), where the monastery now stands.
Famously known for the wedding in John 2 where Jesus performs his first public miracle, Cana lies just a little ways outside of the city of Nazareth, now called Kafr Kanna.
A highlight here is the Wedding Church that was built over Byzantine and Crusader ruins. The site has long been venerated as the original location of the water-to-wine miracle.
There are many locations throughout the small town which also have replicas (and sometimes claimed originals) of the type of jars that would have been used in this miracle.
Often referred to as the “Cradle of Christianity,” Nazareth is one of the most significant cities in the Holy Land. Located in the Galilee region of northern Israel, it is renowned as the place where Jesus Christ grew up, as well as where pivotal events in Christian tradition took place (Luke 2:39-40).
The city is famously mentioned in the Gospel of John: “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:46), highlighting its humble reputation.
Additionally, Nazareth serves as the city where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, announcing that she would bear the Son of God (Luke 1:26-38).
Jesus also preached in the synagogue in Nazareth but was rejected by the townspeople, who attempted to throw Him off a cliff (Luke 4:16-30). The site traditionally associated with this event is known as the Mount of Precipice.
Overnight: Galilee
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 4 – January 25th
Set at the foot of Mount Hermon, Caesarea Philippi is one of the most visually striking and symbolically powerful sites in the Holy Land. Fed by the springs that help form the Jordan River, this lush, water-filled landscape stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding regions. In ancient times, it was known as a center of pagan worship, particularly devoted to the god Pan. Carved into the rock face are niches and ruins of temples, built alongside a deep cave once believed to be an entrance to the underworld—giving the area an ominous reputation as a place associated with the “gates of hell.”
It is here, in this unlikely and spiritually charged setting, that Jesus Christ brought His disciples and asked the question that would define their understanding of Him: “Who do you say that I am?” As recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, Peter the Apostle declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In response, Jesus spoke of building His church upon this “rock,” proclaiming that even the gates of hell would not prevail against it. Standing before a literal cave long associated with the realm of the dead, His words take on a profound and vivid meaning.
The Mount of Transfiguration is a pivotal event in Christian tradition, as well as the Holy Land, where Jesus revealed His divine glory to Peter, James, and John. As recounted in the Gospels (Mathew 17:1-9, Luke 9:28-36, and Mark 9:2-10), Jesus’ face shone like the sun, and His clothes became dazzling white.
Moses and Elijah appeared, symbolizing the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, while a voice from a cloud declared, “This is my beloved Son; hear Him,” affirming Jesus’ divine mission.
Though the Bible does not specify the location, many scholars suggest Mount Hermon, near Caesarea Philippi, as the likely site. Its towering height and seclusion align with the description of a “high mountain.” It also aligns historically with where Jesus had been teaching in a nearby area. This momentous event not only revealed Jesus’ divine nature but also strengthened the disciple’s faith as they prepared to witness His crucifixion and resurrection. This site is not to be missed on our Holy Land tour.
The Mount of Beatitudes is a revered site in the Holy Land, believed to be the location where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Situated on a hill overlooking the Sea of Galilee, this serene setting offers breathtaking views and a spiritual atmosphere that draws countless pilgrims each year.
The sermon includes the Beatitudes, a series of blessings beginning with “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” and continues with teachings on love, humility, and righteousness.
The site is marked by the Church of the Beatitudes, built in the 1930s and designed by Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi. The octagonal shape of the church represents the eight Beatitudes, and its peaceful gardens invite reflection on Jesus’ teachings.
Visiting the Mount of Beatitudes in the Holy Land offers an opportunity to connect with the profound spiritual insights shared by Jesus. The emphasis on humility, mercy, and peacemaking resonates across cultures and faiths, making this site a powerful symbol of hope and inspiration.
Often referred to as the “Town of Jesus,” Capernaum is a pivotal site in the New Testament as well as the Holy Land. Located on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, it served as a home base for Jesus during his Galilean ministry and is where He performed many miracles and taught in the synagogue. Mentioned frequently in the Gospels, Capernaum was a prosperous fishing village during the time of Jesus and a hub for His ministry.
Key events that took place in Capernaum include the healing of the paralytic lowered through the roof (Mark 2:1-12), the healing of Peter’s mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14-15), and the casting out of a demon in the synagogue (Mark 1:21-28). Jesus also called several of His disciples here, including Peter, Andrew, James, and John.
Today, visitors can explore the remains of the ancient synagogue, dating to the 4th century, built atop the foundation of the synagogue where Jesus likely taught. Nearby are the ruins of Peter’s house, identified as an early Christian gathering place now preserved under a modern church.
Overnight: Galilee
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 5 – January 26th
We return to Nazareth for an interactive tour of the little “Nazareth Village.” This site is very similar to the This is The Place Monument in Salt Lake City. Here we will be taken to various stations in a village replicating what Nazareth would have looked like during the time of Jesus.
They will teach us about growing and harvesting olives, making olive oil, shepherding, carpentry, spindling, and more.
Set at the base of Mount Gilboa, Gideon’s Spring is tied to one of the most compelling stories of faith in the Old Testament. According to the Book of Judges, this is the place where Gideon gathered his army before facing the Midianites. In a striking demonstration of divine purpose, God reduced Gideon’s forces from thousands to just 300 men—distinguishing them by the way they drank from the spring—so that the coming victory would clearly be attributed to Him.
Today, visitors to Gideon’s Spring can enjoy a lush, tranquil setting that feels more like an oasis than a battlefield. Surrounded by greenery and overlooking the expansive Jezreel Valley, the site invites quiet reflection on the power of faith, trust, and humility.
Perched on the slopes of Mount Ebal, Joshua’s Altar is traditionally associated with a pivotal moment in the early history of Israel. According to the Book of Joshua, this is where Joshua built an altar following the Israelites’ entrance into the Promised Land. Here, offerings were made, the law was inscribed on stones, and the people gathered to renew their covenant with God—marking a significant step in establishing their identity in the land.
Today, the site is known not only for its biblical connection but also for its archaeological significance. Discovered in the 1980s by Adam Zertal, the structure has sparked ongoing discussion among scholars, with some identifying it as the altar described in scripture and others offering alternative interpretations.
Known in antiquity as a thriving fishing and trade center, Magdala sits in the heart of the Galilee region where much of Jesus Christ’s ministry took place. The town is traditionally associated with Mary Magdalene.
Excavations at Magdala have revealed remarkably well-preserved remains of a first-century Jewish city, including streets, homes, ritual baths, and a marketplace. One of its most significant discoveries is the ancient synagogue—among the earliest known from the Second Temple period—featuring intricate stonework and what is believed to be one of the earliest carved depictions of the Second Temple itself.
Today, visitors can walk through the archaeological park and experience a vivid snapshot of life in the Galilee during the time of Jesus, making Magdala a powerful blend of history, faith, and everyday ancient life.
Overnight: Galilee
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6 – January 27th
This morning we will have the opportunity to go on a boat ride on the Galilee.
The Sea of Galilee is central to the ministry of Jesus, serving as the setting for many of His teachings and miracles. It is here that Jesus calmed a storm (Mark 4:35-41), walked on water (Matthew 14:22-33). and called His disciples, many of whom were fishermen. The Galilee is often referred to in the Holy Land as a geographical anchor.
Yardinet is believed to be the modern location where Jesus Christ was baptized by John the Baptist, as recorded in Matthew. This site is rich in spiritual symbolism, allowing us to reflect on the example and direction that Jesus has given us about obtaining the Kingdom of Heaven.
This Holy Land site is famous for baptisms, offering white robes for those who wish to be baptized as the Savior was in the Jordan River.
Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, located in the Jordan Valley, near the Dead Sea in modern-day Palestine. Its rich history dates back over 10,000 years, making it a significant archaeological and Holy Land site.
Jericho is famously known for its association with the biblical story of the Battle of Jericho (Book of Joshua). Led by Joshua, the Israelites crossed the Jordan River before coming across Jericho. They marched around the walls of Jericho for seven days, and on the seventh day, the walls miraculously collapsed.
Archaeologically, Jericho is a treasure trove of ancient remains. The ancient Tell es-Sultan site near modern Jericho reveals layers of human settlement from the Neolithic period, including the ancient city walls and watchtower that date back to 8,000 BC. These structures are considered among the earliest examples of fortified cities.
Today, Jericho is a modern city with a rich archaeological and historical legacy. Visitors can explore sites such as the Tel es-Sultan excavation, the Hisham’s Palace, and Elijah’s Spring, which is traditionally associated with the biblical prophet Elijah.
Overnight: Near the Dead Sea
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7 – January 28th
Part of the Holy Land sites, Masada is an ancient fortress located on a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea in southern Israel, known for its dramatic history and archaeological significance. The site, which rises nearly 450 meters above the surrounding desert, was originally constructed by King Herod the Great in the 1st century BC as a winter palace and military stronghold.
Masada’s most famous historical even occurred in the 1st century AD during the Jewish Roman Wars. After the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD, a group of Jewish rebels, known as the Sicarii, took refuge at Masada. In 73 or 74 AD, the Roman army laid siege to the fortress, eventually building a massive ramp to breach the walls. When the Romans finally entered the fortress, they discovered that the defenders had committed mass suicide rather than surrender to the Romans, marking Masada as a symbol of Jewish resistance and martyrdom.
In the region traditionally associated with Sodom and Gomorrah along the southern shores of the Dead Sea, visitors often encounter small yellowish formations commonly referred to as “sulfur balls” or “brimstone.” These deposits, found among the salt flats and desert terrain of the area, are closely tied in local tradition to the biblical account of fire and brimstone described in the destruction of the cities in Genesis 19.
Because of this striking landscape—marked by salt, mineral formations, and unusual geological features—the area has long been connected with the dramatic imagery of judgment and destruction found in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Qumran is an ancient archaeological site located near the Dead Sea in Israel, most famously known as the settlement associated with the Dead Sea Scrolls. The site was inhabited by a Jewish sect, often identified as the Essenes, from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century AD. The group is believed to have lived in isolation to preserve their strict religious practices, and their settlement includes a complex of ruins, cisterns, ritual baths (mikvehs), and dwellings.
The most significant contribution of Qumran to history is its connection to the Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of ancient texts that include parts of the Hebrew Bible, Jewish writings, and other religious manuscripts. These scrolls, discovered in nearby caves between 1947 and 1956, have provided invaluable insights into early Jewish life, the development of the Hebrew Scriptures, and the context of the Second Temple Judaism period in the Holy Land.
Tonight is Shabbat. Those who would like to should visit the Western Wall at night to see how Shabbat is celebrated.
The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is the last remaining part of the Second Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. The Western Wall is considered by Jews to be the closest physical point to the Holy of Holies, the innermost chamber of the ancient Temple, which housed the Ark of the Covenant.
For Jews, the Western Wall is a place of intense spiritual significance, and it has long been a site of prayer, reflection, and mourning. Visitors from around the world come to pray at the Wall, often inserting small written prayers into the cracks between the stones.
The site is divided into sections for men and women, as Jewish law dictates separate prayer areas. Participation at this site is a unique opportunity for our guests in the Holy Land.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 8 – January 29th
Located just 6 miles south of Jerusalem, Bethlehem is the known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the prophecy in Micah 5:2 that the Messiah would come from this small town.
Along with being the birthplace of Jesus, it is also tied to other biblical figures. It served as the birthplace and early home of King David (1 Samuel 16:1-13), and it was here that David was anointed King by the prophet Samuel. This site is also believed to be the burial place of Rachel, the wife of Jacob, located at the northern entrance (Genesis 35:19-20).
Church of the Nativity: Built over the traditional site of Jesus’ birth, this is one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world. Originally constructed in 326 AD by Emperor Constantine, it features a grotto where a silver star marks the place of Jesus’ birth.
Milk Grotto: A small cave where tradition holds that Mary and Joseph stopped while fleeing to Egypt. According to tradition, a drop of Mary’s milk fell on the stone, turning it white, and it was since been a site associated with fertility and healing.
Shepherd’s Field: Located in Beit Sahour, just outside of Bethlehem, this site commemorates the fields where the angels announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-14). The area contains ancient caves and ruins of early Christian churches. Here we will have lunch in a traditional shepherd’s tent.
Kathisma, meaning “seat” in Greek, is an ancient Byzantine church located between Jerusalem and Bethlehem. It is traditionally believed to be the place where Mary rested while traveling to Bethlehem before giving birth to Jesus.
According to this tradition, Mary, heavily pregnant, paused here along the journey for a moment of respite. This event led to the site becoming a place of veneration, and in the 5th century, a wealthy widow funded the construction of a grand Byzantine church over the spot. The site was abandoned after the Persian invasion in 614 AD, and its ruins were only rediscovered in the 1990’s.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9 – January 30th
Here we will have LDS Sacrament Meeting Services in the Holy Land.
Opened in 1989, the center offers students a unique opportunity to study Middle Eastern culture, history, religion, and languages in one of the world’s most historically and spiritually significant regions.
Its location on the Mount of Olives offers stunning views of the Old City. It also has close proximity to many key religious and historical sites that we will visit later today.
The Mount of Olives rises just across the valley from Jerusalem and holds profound significance throughout the New Testament. From its slopes, Jesus Christ frequently taught, prayed, and gathered with His disciples during the final days of His ministry. It is here that He wept over Jerusalem, foretold events concerning the city, and spent time in the quiet garden setting of Gethsemane, where He prayed before His arrest.
The Mount of Olives also becomes the backdrop for some of the most pivotal moments following the Resurrection, as it is traditionally recognized as the place of Christ’s Ascension. Overlooking the Temple Mount and the ancient city, this ridge stands as a powerful witness to moments of sorrow, prayer, teaching, and triumph that define the New Testament narrative.
What you should know:
Today we will start at the top of the Mount and meander down to the base, visiting the Acension Site, Tomb of the Prophets (including Malachai), the Orson Hyde Garden, and ending at the Garden of Gethsemane. Guests sould prepare for an afternoon of downhill walking, making stops at these sites along the way.
This church building, also known as the Basilica of the Agony, is built over the rock where tradition says that Christ prayed and performed the Atonement, as described in the Gospels (Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14: 32-42, and Luke 22: 39-46).
The Garden of Gethsemane, located just outside the church, is home to ancient olive trees, some of which are believed to be over 2,000 years old. The area adds to the sacred nature of the site, making the Church of All Nations one of the most impactful sites on this Holy Land tour.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 10 – January 31st
The Elah Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes in biblical history, best known as the setting of the dramatic encounter between David and Goliath. According to the account in the Book of Samuel, the valley served as the battlefield where the young shepherd David faced the Philistine champion Goliath with nothing but a sling and five smooth stones—an event that has become one of the most enduring stories of faith and courage in scripture.
Here we will imagine what the great encounter would have looked like.
The site is traditionally identified as the burial place of the prophet Samuel, a key figure who anointed Israel’s first kings, including Saul and David, as recorded in the Books of Samuel.
Over time, Nebi Samuel became a sacred site for multiple faith traditions and was developed into a mosque, synagogue, and church complex, reflecting its layered religious significance. Today, visitors can explore the restored Crusader-era remains and climb to the rooftop viewpoint, which is widely considered one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the region.
Bethel is one of the most significant locations in the patriarchal narratives of the Old Testament, sitting in the central hill country north of Jerusalem. According to the Book of Genesis, this is where Jacob stopped on his journey and had his famous dream of a ladder reaching to heaven, with angels ascending and descending. In response, Jacob declared the place “the house of God,” giving Bethel its name and marking it as a sacred point of encounter between heaven and earth.
Tel Shiloh is one of the most important early worship centers in biblical history, located in the hill country of Samaria north of Jerusalem. According to the Book of Joshua, this is where the Israelites set up the Tabernacle after entering the Promised Land, making Shiloh the central place of worship for Israel for several centuries before the establishment of Jerusalem as the religious capital.
At Shiloh, key events in the story of Israel unfold, including the ministry of the young prophet Samuel, who is said to have served at the sanctuary under the priest Eli, as recorded in the Books of Samuel.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 11 – February 1st
Our visit to the Holy Land wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Dome of the Rock. The Dome of the Rock is one of the most iconic and sacred landmarks in Jerusalem. Located on the Temple Mount, it is a gold domed mosque that holds deep religious significance for Muslims, Jews and Christians alike.
For Muslims it is believed to be the place where the Prophet Muhammad ascended into heaven. The Rock inside the shrine is believed to be the spot where this event occurred, and it is also associated with the earlier story of Abraham’s near-sacrifice of his son Ishmael, as described in Islamic tradition.
For Jews and Christians alike, this site is where the First and Second Temples once stood. With the Dome of the Rock built where the Holy of Hollies once was, making it one of the most interesting sites in the Holy Land.
St. Anne is the mother of the Virgin Mary. Traditionally, the birth of Mary was miraculous, filling her mother’s barren womb. As a result, Mary spent her life serving in the Synagogue until she was given to Joseph in marriage.
A church has been built over this site, commemorating St. Anne and the origins of the Virgin Mary.
Next to the church is the excavated site of the Pool of Bethesda. It was here that the waters would “stir up” leading to the pagan belief that touching the water would offer healing.
Most people miss that the tomb of King David is located just underneath the Upper Room where the Last Supper traditionally was held.
A quick visit to this tomb will demonstrate just how important King David still is to the Jewish people, with several locals here to venerate and worship.
The Room of the Last Supper, also known as the Cenacle, is a significant Holy Land site, located on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. It is traditionally believed to be the location where Jesus Christ shared his final meal with his disciples before his crucifixion (The Last Supper). As well as where the Apostles received the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost (the Cenacle).
The room is located on the upper floor of a building, and it is part of a larger complex that has undergone various changes over the centuries. The current structure, which dates back to the 14th century, was built during the Crusader period and is influenced both by Gothic and Islamic architectural styles.
Caiaphas’ Palace is traditionally believed to be the location where Jesus Christ was interrogated by the High Priest Caiaphas before his crucifixion. The palace is located near the Mount of Olives and the Old City in the Holy Land.
The famous account of Peter’s denial of Christ also took place in the courtyard of this palace, where he famously denied knowing Jesus three times.
Today the Caiaphas palace is part of the Church of St. Peter Gallicantu. The church’s name refers to the gallus, or cock crowing, symbolizing Peter’s three denials.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 12 – February 2nd
The City of David is an extensive archaeological site that provides insight into the earliest days of Jerusalem. It is considered the birthplace of the city and is directly linked to biblical events and historical figures like King David, Solomon, and Hezekiah.
The City of David is believed to be the original settlement of Jerusalem, dating back more than 3,000 years to the Canaanite and Israelite periods. It was King David who established it as the political and religious center of his kingdom, as described in 2 Samuel 5:6-9. His son, King Solomon, expanded the city, constructing the First Temple on what is now known as the Temple Mount.
Hezekiah’s Tunnel: A remarkable engineering feat built in the 8th century BC by King Hezekiah (2 Kings 20:20, 2 Chronicles 32:30). This 1,750 foot-long underground tunnel redirected water from the Ghion Spring to the Pool of Siloam, allowing the city to withstand the Assyrian siege under King Sennacherib. We will have the opportunity to walk through this tunnel, that is still knee deep full of water.
The Siloam Inscription: Found inside Hezekiah’s Tunnel, this inscription, written in ancient Hebrew, describes the construction of the tunnel and is one of the oldest pieces of Hebrew writing ever discovered.
The Pool of Siloam: This pool, discovered in 2004, was a central water source for Jerusalem during the Second Temple period. It is also the location where Jesus healed a blind man (John 9:1-7).
Bullae (Clay Seal Impressions): Archaeologists have found seal impressions bearing the names of biblical figures, including Gedaliah, son of Pashhur, and Jucal, son of Shelemiah, both mentioned in Jeremiah 38:1.
Large Stone Structure: Thought to be the remains of King David’s palace, this massive structure dates back to the 10th century BC. It suggests that Jerusalem was a well-established city during David’s reign.
The Stepped Stone Structure: A massive supporting wall or terrace system, likely used to reinforce the palace and other buildings above it.
The Gihon Spring: The city’s primary water source in ancient times. It played a crucial role in Jerusalem’s survival, supplying water to residents and later being integrated into the city’s defensive system.
This area served as a primary access point into the Temple precinct during the Second Temple period, where vast staircases led worshippers up into the sacred courts described throughout the Gospels.
Jesus Christ would have entered the Temple through these southern steps during His visits to Jerusalem, as recorded in the New Testament. Archaeological remains of these monumental staircases still exist today, offering a powerful physical connection to ancient pilgrimage and worship practices.
The Western Wall Tunnels run along the base of the Temple Mount, revealing one of the most extraordinary archaeological experiences in Jerusalem. These tunnels expose massive Herodian-era foundation stones, hidden chambers, ancient streets, and engineering marvels that expanded the Second Temple complex during the time of Jesus Christ.
The Temple Institute is a Jerusalem-based institution focused on researching, preserving, and reconstructing the traditions, vessels, and priestly practices associated with the ancient Jewish Temple in the city. Essentially these are the Jews preparing for the third temple.
Founded in 1987, the organization works to recreate ritual objects described in the Hebrew Bible and Second Temple period sources, including items such as priestly garments, altar implements, and ceremonial vessels used in Temple service, with the intention that they will once again be used in the Third Temple.
Located in the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem, the Temple Institute also serves as an educational center, offering exhibits and presentations that explore the history and significance of the Temple Mount.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 13 – February 3rd
Located just outside the Old City, near Golgotha, it is an alternative location to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for those who believe that Jesus’ tomb may have been in a different area.
The Garden Tomb consists of a rock-cut tomb and a garden, with the tomb believed to date back to the time of Jesus. The site includes a rock-hewn chamber where the body of Jesus was laid after his crucifixion, and it features a stone entrance that would have been rolled in front of the tomb to seal it. The tomb is empty, symbolizing Jesus’ resurrection.
There are two significant aspects of the Notre Dame, including the newly finished Pentecost murial, and the shroud of Turin.
The Pentecost mural is a beautiful artistic rendering of the Pentecost meal, filled with intense symbolism.
The shroud of Turin is a replica of the original. Meant to have preserved the impression of Jesus’ body as he laid in the tomb, giving us an idea of how he may have looked. The original is in Turin, Italy.
Located in the Christian Quarter, this small church uniquely combines worship services for Christains and Messianic Jews alike.
In the neighboring building there are several 3-D models of the city of Jerusalem throughout the several periods of changes.
Together we have visited the main pilgrimage sites of the city, but there is so much more to explore in Jerusalem. Today we give the opportunity to guests to explore more personal interests in Jerusalem, whether that is shopping at the Shuk, trying new foods, or exploring museums.
The bus and guides will not be included on this day.
Mahane Yehuda Market “The Shuk”: Experience the vibrant flavors and cultures of Jersualem at the Shuk. During the day it is a bustling market with stalls selling fresh produce, spices, baked goods, and street foods. At night it transforms into a lively spot with music and dancing. Try local favorites such as falafel, kanafeh, or fresh pomegranate juice.
The Israel Museum & Shrine of the Book: This world-class museum houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and a huge outdoor model of Second Temple-era Jerusalem. Explore fascinating exhibits on archaeology, Jewish history, and Israeli art.
Ein Karem: Escape the city’s hustle and visit Ein Karem, a picturesque village with quaint cafes, art galleries, and stunning churches. It’s traditionally believed to be the birthplace of John the Baptist. Enjoy a peaceful walk through its lush hills.
Yad Vashem – Holocaust Memorial: For a deeply moving experience, visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust memorial. The museum presents powerful exhibits on Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust, along with the hall of names, a tribute to the victims.
Zedekiah’s Cave: Explore this massive underground cavern beneath the Old City, thought to be King Solomon’s quarry. It is an off the beaten path adventure with a mysterious past, linked to Freemason traditions and biblical history.
The First Station (HaTachana): Once Jerusalem’s historic train station, this area has been transformed into a trendy entertainment district with open-air restaurants, boutique shops, and cultural performances. It’s a great place to relax, enjoy a meal, or catch live music.
Ramparts Walk: For a different perspective of Jerusalem, take the Ramparts Walk along the top of the Old City walls. The northern route offers views of the Muslim and Christian Quarters, while the southern route overlooks the Jewish and Armenian Quarters.
Mount Herzl & Herzl Museum: The site serves as Israel’s national cemetery, honoring fallen soldiers and prominent leaders, including Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern Zionism. The museum nearby offers an interactive look at his vision for the Jewish state.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Meals Included: Breakfast & Farewell Dinner
Day 14 – February 4th
Today we leave the Holy Land behind and travel home. Flights may depart as early as midnight, depending on your flight itinerary. A group transfer will be included for those who have the majority.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Payment Terms: A $300 deposit per person is required at the time of booking, as well as a completed reservation form. Final payment is due 90 days before tour departure. This tour is priced based on the current exchange rate of the Israeli Shekel to USD and may be subject to change.
This tour is based on a group size of 20 guests.
