“The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin... and the virgin’s name was Mary... and he came to her and said. Hail, O favored one, the Lord is with you!.. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.” - Luke 1:26-32
Nazareth is the largest Arab city in Israel with a population of 60,000 both Christians and Muslims – who live together in harmoniously. Its special geographic location between the open space of the Jezreel valley and the mountainous regions of the Galilee makes it a perfect base for Galilee region tourism.
Nazareth is one of the most important Christian holy sites in the world, and has long been a special haven for Christian pilgrims. The city has a unique mixture of European and Middle Eastern ambiance as can be seen in its architecture, which is a combination of Gothic or Neoclassical style with typical Middle Eastern style. The Arab population is renowned for they warm hospitality and exotic food. The Baklawah, the traditional Arab sweet of Nazareth is sold on almost every corner.
Nazareth: Special Sites
Nazareth is packed full of interesting sites, here are mentioned but a few of the many things to do in Nazareth:
The Basilica of the Annunciation:
This Basilica was erected over earlier Byzantine & Crusader churches. It marks the traditional Roman Catholic site of the Annunciation.
The Church of St. Joseph’s Carpentry Complex:
This church is located in the same complex as the Basilica of the Annunciation. This is considered the original workshop of Joseph and Home of the Holy Family.
Grotto of the Annunciation
Located in the Basilica of the Annunciation, this large cave is the site where it is said the angel Gabriel proclaimed to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus.
Megiddo
This archaeological site of an ancient fortress town has revealed more than 20 layers of ruins, ranging in time from the Neolithic Period (7000 BC) to the end of the Persian Period (332 BC).
Ancient Synagogue & Greek Catholic Church
Within the Old marketplace is a humble structure of thick, curved stone walls (known as the Synagogue Church) that is the site of the ancient synagogue where Jesus preached as a young man.
The Old Market
a bustling, colorful Middle Eastern bazaar near the Annunciation complex. Here you can sample the rich and special tastes of the Levant.
