Map of Upper Galilee

Tel Dan

Tel Dan Nature Reserve isn’t just a national park in Israel, it’s a blend of stunning natural beauty and fascinating archaeology. The Dan Spring is the largest source of the Jordan River. Lush greenery, cool streams, and towering trees create a refreshing escape, while the ancient city of Dan offers a glimpse into the past. Evidence suggests settlements date back as far as 4500 BC, Canaanites and Israelites are two prominent groups who left their mark.

The High Place: This is an ancient religious area, possibly a shrine, dating back to the time of the Kingdom of Israel (around 9th century BCE). It’s believed to be part of a larger complex built by King Jeroboam I.

The Canaanite Gate: This impressive structure, built around 1800 BCE, is one of the earliest known arched gateways in the world. Made of mudbricks, it stands at a remarkable 7 meters tall.

The Israelite Gate: This gate marks the entrance to the ancient city of Dan during the Israelite period. The remains of the gate and surrounding fortification walls offer a glimpse into the city’s defenses.

The House of David Tablet: This fragmentary inscription, discovered in 1993, is a major archaeological find. It mentions a “House of David,” considered to be strong evidence outside the Bible for the existence of King David’s dynasty. While you can’t see the tablet itself at Tel Dan National Park, it’s currently on display at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.

Banias

The Banias Nature Reserve, also known as the Hermon Stream Nature Reserve, is a beautiful spot in the Golan Heights of Israel. It’s known for being the source of the Jordan River and for its stunning Banias Waterfall, the largest in Israel. The reserve is also rich in history, with archaeological remains from ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans.

Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, exploring the ruins, and picnicking in the lush greenery. There are four trails that range from 45 minutes to 90 minutes long. One of the trails connects the two entrances to the park, so if you take that one be sure to have a car waiting for you at the other end unless you want to walk back.

Here are some of the interesting things you can see in the Banias Nature Reserve:

  • The Shrine and Cave of Pan: This spot was dedicated to the Greek god Pan.
  • An ancient Roman bridge
  • A water-powered flour mill with olive press facilities
  • A hydroelectric station
  • Crusader and Mameluke era gates, walls, and moats

 

Christian Tradition: Significantly for Christians, Banias is traditionally identified as Caesarea Philippi, the location where Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15). According to the Gospels, Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). This is seen as a pivotal moment when Jesus acknowledged Peter as the rock upon which he would build his church (Matthew 16:18). While there are no remains of a specific church dedicated to this event, the tradition adds another layer of significance to this beautiful natural and historical site.

Tel Hazor

Tel Hazor is a significant archaeological site, believed to be the ancient Canaanite city of Hazor. It was once one of the largest and most important cities in the region, mentioned in both the Bible and historical records.

Tel Hazor’s archaeological remains offer valuable clues about the history, culture, and society of the ancient Canaanites and their interactions with other civilizations.

The Biblical Story of Hazor

Hazor is a city frequently mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the context of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan.

  • Joshua’s Conquest: According to the Book of Joshua, Hazor was one of the most powerful cities in the land, led by King Jabin. Joshua and the Israelites waged a decisive battle against Hazor, defeating King Jabin and destroying the city. This victory was seen as a significant milestone in the Israelites’ establishment in Canaan.
  • A Symbol of Oppression: In later biblical passages, Hazor is often used as a symbol of oppression and idolatry. For example, in the Book of Judges, Deborah and Barak defeated the Canaanite army led by Sisera, who was based in Hazor. This victory was seen as a deliverance from the tyranny of Hazor and its king.
  • A Place of Worship: In the Book of Kings, Hazor is mentioned as a place where Solomon built a temple to the pagan goddess Asherah. This act of idolatry was condemned by the prophet Elijah.

The biblical narrative of Hazor highlights its significance as a powerful and influential city in the ancient Near East, as well as its role in the Israelites’ religious and political history.

Wild Life

The Golan Heights, a plateau known for its dramatic scenery and historical significance, is also home to a variety of wild animals. Here’s a glimpse of some you might encounter:

Gazelles

One of the most abundant animals on the Golan Heights is the Palestine mountain gazelle. These graceful creatures with large eyes and long, slender legs can often be seen grazing in herds.
Wild Life

Foxes

The adaptable fox, both red and fennec varieties, are present on the Golan Heights. They play a vital role in the ecosystem, helping to control rodent populations.
Wild Life
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