Tiberias, known in Hebrew as Tiveria is a beautiful city located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. It is a city with a rich history that dates back to ancient times, and it is considered one of the four holy cities in Judaism.
History: Tiberias was founded in 18 CE by Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great. It was named in honor of the Roman Emperor Tiberius. The city quickly became an important center of Jewish learning and culture, and it was home to many famous rabbis and scholars.
In the 2nd century CE, the Sanhedrin, the highest Jewish court, moved to Tiberias from Jerusalem. The city became a major center of Jewish scholarship and the location of the compilation of the Mishnah, the first written codification of Jewish oral law.
During the Byzantine period, Tiberias became a Christian city and was home to several important churches and monasteries. In the 7th century, the city was conquered by the Muslim Arab armies, and it became an important center of Islamic culture and learning.
Throughout the centuries, Tiberias has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes, wars, and other disasters. Today, it is a modern city that serves as a popular tourist destination and a center of Jewish religious life.
Guide: There are many interesting things to see and do in Tiberias. Here are some of the highlights:
- The Sea of Galilee: Tiberias is located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, which is a beautiful and historic body of water that is mentioned many times in the Bible. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the Sea of Galilee.
- The Tomb of Maimonides: Maimonides, also known as the Rambam, was a famous Jewish scholar and physician who lived in Tiberias in the 12th century. His tomb is located in the city, and it is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews from around the world.
- The Hamat Tiberias National Park: This park contains the ruins of an ancient Roman bathhouse and a synagogue from the 4th century CE. Visitors can see the impressive mosaics that decorated these structures and learn about the history of the city.
- The Amdur Fine Gallery: This gallery showcases the work of local Israeli artists, and it is a great place to see contemporary art from the region.
- The Old City: Tiberias has a charming old city that is full of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the city on foot and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant and unique place.
Overall, Tiberias is a city with a rich and fascinating history that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the culture and traditions of Israel. Whether you are interested in ancient history, religion, or contemporary art, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and beautiful city.
