Christian Sites and Pilgrimage in Israel
Israel is considered the birthplace of Christianity because it is the land where Jesus was born, raised and began his ministry, which formed one of the world’s major religions. From his birth to his crucifixion and subsequent resurrection in Jerusalem, these are only a few of the major events in the beginning of Christianity that happened in Israel. Because of this, there are an immense number of Christian holy sites scattered throughout the country that hold great significance to Christians around the world and continually attract millions of visitors each year. From the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to the Church of the Nativity, the living history of the beginning of Christianity can be explored on a trip to Israel. Read more below on the top Christian sites in Israel.
1: Jerusalem
The Old City of Jerusalem is home to some of the top Christian sites in Israel. The holiest Christian site in Jerusalem is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is believed to be the site of Jesus Christs’s crucifixion and burial. Leading to the church is the notable Via Dolorosa, which is the path Jesus is said to have taken on his way to his crucifixion. Other famous sites in the Old City of Jerusalem include the Church of All Nations and the Mount of Olives. These sites hold great significance in Christian history and tradition. Explore them on a tour of Jerusalem with IsraelTours4U.
2: Bethlehem
Another popular destination for Christian pilgrimage in Israel is Bethlehem. This is the place where Jesus was born, and because of this, is home to some highly significant Christian sites. Manger Square, at the center of Bethlehem, and it is surrounded by important sites, such as the Church of Nativity. This is the oldest church that is still in use, and contains the grotto where it is believed to be where Jesus was born. Additionally, the Milk Grotto chapel can be found in Bethlehem. This is believed to be the place where Mary breast-fed Jesus, and many couples and women visit here to pray for fertility.
3: Nazareth
Located in the northern region of Israel, there are many notable Christian holy sites in Nazareth because this is where Jesus spent his childhood. The living history here makes it a top place Christian pilgrimage in Israel The top Chrisitan site in Nazareth is the Basilica of Annunciation. This is built over the spot where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary. Another site in Nazareth is the Church of St. Joseph which is the spot of Joseph’s carpentry shop. The Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation and Nazareth’s Village are also sites that are worth visiting on a Christian tour.
4: The Galilee
The Galilee region of Israel has many Christian sites. Near the Sea of Galilee, is the Church of Multiplication, which commemorates the feeding of the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. Another notable site in this region is Mount of Beatitudes, and here is where Jesus is said to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Capernaum is also in the Galilee, and here it is said that Jesus performed many miracles, including healing the sick and casting out demons. Visitors are now able to explore the remains of a fifth-century church which is thought to be built over the house where Jesus lived.