North, South, and Crusaders In-Between

We'll miss you, Yael!

We said goodbye to the Galilee today, stopping for a wonderful visit at Magdalena and the first century synagogue and menorah there. The gorgeous modern church of Duc in Altum, dedicated to the women of the Gospels was a fabulous visit.

Menorah stone at Magdalena

Our next stop was the Crusader castle of Belvoir, overlooking the Jordan Valley. It is an excellent example of a Kinights Of St John  (Hospitallers) fortress.

Moat at Belvoir 

We moved on to Beth Shemesh and the ruins of the ancient Canaanite city towering above the later Roman town below. Our visit to the ancient latrines say everybody get together for the ancient Roman form of social medi and chin wagging!!!

Roman theater at Beth Shean

Ancient Tell (ruin) of Canaanite city overlooking
the Roman ruins

Ancient Potty Stop, group style

We sadly said goodbye to our guide Yael, dropping her at the train station to catch a ride home in preparation for her own family holiday. We so enjoyed her teaching and insights, and look forward to getting to know our new guide, Ronen.

A long drive down the Jordan Valley and we reached Qumran, the discovery site of many of the Dead Sea Scrolls and home of the Essene sect of first century Judaism.

Now in the spa hotel of Ein Gedi we are enjoying a nice desert night, wonderful food, and a relaxing environment. Tomorrow: desert adventure, Bedouins, the fall of Masada, and camels!