In times of the pandemic, when travelling is almost impossible due to restrictions, you can still embark on wondrous journeys, even getting a glimpse of Israel's holy cities and sites, thanks to the marvels of technology.
Jerusalem's Beit Avi Chai cultural center offers a unique opportunity to visit the cities of Tiberias, Safed and holy sites of Hebron from the comfort of your own home by providing virtual tours of the historic locations free of charge.
The tours include include original footage, videos and maps. By traveling the historical timeline of these cities, the audience will be able to explore the events and figures that shape so much of the Jewish history in Israel.
Tiberias
The audience will be able to visit the ancient Tiberias where the Sanhedrin sat, the city gate, the Roman era theatre, the Mishna & Talmud era synagogue and its beautiful mosaics. From there the audience will transport to the Middle Ages and see Maimonides grave and discover the failed attempt to resettle the city in the 16th century by Dona Gracia. You will be able to meet Rabbi Haim Abulafya as Tveria is resettled in the 18th century, visit the central figure and hear the cities interesting stories, including how the battles played out in the Independence War.
Hebron
The audience will go back to the dawn of time and walk through the Cave of the Patriarchs, exploring the ins and outs of the fascinating burial site of our 'Avot & Emahot' and hear the fascinating stories the ancient remains atop Tel Romeda tell us. A ride through the history of the Jewish settlement of Hebron will be next, with a visit to the Avraham Avinu synagogue and the story of the modern day Jewish residents of Hebron.
Safed
The audience will explore the mystical northern city, its sites and fascinating figures who lived there 500 years ago and how they changed the world of Kabbalah. You will be able to will visit the Ari, Rabbi Yosef Karo & Abuhav synagogues along with walking through the 'Savta Yocheved' alleyway. You will visit the hidden myrtle tree trunk, talk about the Independence War and its miracles, and finish with a fun local culinary experience.
The tours are intended for the English-speaking audience and are hosted by tour guide Ami Braun.
The tour of Tiberias will take place Sunday, Feb. 14 at 8pm, of Hebron on Sunday, Feb. 28 at 8pm and of Safed on Sunday, March 7 at 8pm. The free tours will be available via the Beit Avi Chai website.