Best known to Christians as the hometown of Jesus Christ, this city (an-Nāṣira in Arabic) is located in the north of the state of Israel (about an hour 20 minutes from Jerusalem) but its population is almost totally Palestininan Arab, of whom 69 percent are Muslim and 31 percent Christian. "The Arab Capital of Israel" offers a stimulating blend of biblical history, Palestinian culture, and lively modern life. The cit´s most important "sight" is the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Middle East´s largest church, built on the spot where the Angel Gabriel is said to have announced to the Virgin Mary that she would give birth to Jesus. The church as we see it today, however, is very recent, finished in 1969 on the site of previous churches dating back to the 6th century. The lower level houses ancient grottoes, while the upper basilica features stunning mosaics from around the world. Close to the basilica, St. Joseph’s Church stands over a spot held to be Joseph’s carpentry workshop, and Mary’s Well commemorates where the Virgin Mary is said to have drawn water. Also nearby is the humble synagogue church where tradition holds that Jesus taught as a boy. Beyond all these, it's a delight to wander through the old city and souq, with winding alleyways filled with spice stalls, traditional craft shops, and fresh produce markets. Don’t miss a cup of Arabic coffee or a taste of authentic kanafeh, a sweet cheese pastry, and sample local specialties such as maqluba (layered rice and meat), falafel, and freshly baked pita—at family-owned restaurants. Just outside the city, this dramatic cliff known as Mount Precipice offers panoramic views of the Jezreel Valley and Mount Tabor. According to tradition, it’s where an angry crowd attempted to cast Jesus off the hill. And Nazareth Village is a living-history museum recreating daily life in 1st-century Galilee, with meet costumed guides, see ancient farming techniques, and walk among olive presses and stone houses. And if you can make it here in December, there's a wonderful Christmas market.
Read more in my post The Top 10 Musts in the West Bank of Palestine - Plus 1 More.
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