בס"ד
Nazaret
Nazareth, located in the Northern District of Israel, stands out as the city with the largest Arab population in the country, with approximately 72,500 inhabitants. A third of the population professes the Christian faith, while the rest follow the Muslim faith. According to tradition, Nazareth is the birthplace of Christianity, where the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit, and where Jesus spent his childhood and youth.
This city, nestled in the lower Galilee, is located in a valley surrounded by mountains that is home to some of the most significant Christian sites in the world. Over the centuries, Nazareth has evolved from a small Jewish village 2,000 years ago, to becoming a bastion of Christianity during the Byzantine period.
Nazareth's fame as a place of pilgrimage was consolidated during this time, giving rise to the construction of the city's first church, the Church of the Annunciation. Over the centuries, various churches have been erected and rebuilt, reflecting both Muslim and Christian influences.
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A tour of Nazareth is like traveling back in time, exploring its various historical periods. The Old City, built in the 19th century in a charming Near Eastern architectural style, is home to most of the sights. Prominent among them are the Church of the Annunciation, rebuilt with parts from the Crusader and Byzantine periods, and the Church of St. Joseph, which is said to stand on the site of Joseph's carpentry workshop. In addition, the Greek Orthodox Church
Not to be overlooked is the Old Town's local market, where you can enjoy an authentic Middle Eastern experience, through vibrant colors, tantalizing scents, and the opportunity to purchase local fabrics, spices, and souvenirs.
Beyond its Old City, Nazareth offers the Nabi Sain promenade with its breathtaking views of the Galilee, while the former Turkish bathhouse, an Ottoman manor house and the complex built by the Russians as a hostel for pilgrims, offer fascinating insights into the city's history.
Nazareth, over the centuries, has been a welcoming destination for pilgrims, and today it has Christian hostels that provide comfort to visitors, especially during Christmas. The many restaurants offer delicious dishes that attract visitors all year round.
During the Christmas season, the city is decked out with festive decorations, creating a special atmosphere of holiness with the sound of prayers echoing in its churches.
