Jerusalem, Israel

Incredible Must See Sacred Places

A popular tourist destination for all religious orders, Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, set in four quadrants (Armenian, Jewish, Christian and Muslim; all of which lay claim to it in certain religious regards), and the centre if the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It remains a fairly safe place to travel as both factions, while claiming full ownership, recognize and accept the holy value of the city for many religions.

Situated on a plateau that rests between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea, Jerusalem has a long and diverse history, riddled with conflicts, destruction and rebuilding, divisiveness and harmony. It is a highly cultural city, much of which has religion at its root.

There is much to see and do in this amazing sacred place, the destination of Christians, Muslims and Jews, as well as lovers of history and ancient culture. Attractions such as the Western Wall (Wailing Wall), Temple Mount, Dome of the Rock, and the Garden Tomb speak to different religions and cultures, whereas the Via Dolorosa and Church of the Holy Sepulchre are icons of Christianity, the place where Jesus Christ died and was thought to be buried, and the path he walked toward his crucifixion, respectively.

The Garden of Gethsemane in the foothills of the Mount of Olives is said to be the last place Christ prayed before being arrested by the Romans. For believers, Jerusalem boasts a richness of spirituality. Even for non-religious persons, walking down a narrow spiral stone staircase at the Church of the Nativity in nearby Bethlehem to view the gleaming star embedded in the floor, the supposed location of Christ’s birth, is a moving experience, a humble tribute and very much worth a look.

It has been suggested that in order to establish permanent peace between the Israelis and Palestinians, Jerusalem be declared part of neither nation, but owned internationally. That it be proclaimed an international religious centre. If Jesus Christ was indeed a real person, then this would likely be his desired outcome in the land of his birth and death.