Nazareth

Nazareth The Childhood Home Of Jesus

December 20, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Nazareth The Childhood Home Of Jesus

Nazareth was the childhood home of Jesus, and is considered a major pilgrimage site. It is nestled among the southern mountains of Lebanon. It is a charming town. The area is fertile and green. It is near the border of Israel and its northern neighbor, Lebanon. This gorgeous village is perched on the top of a steep hill overlooking a large lush valley. It is approximately 14 miles from the beautiful Sea of Galilee. Go west approximately 6 miles and you will be on Mount Tabor. What a beautiful place. What a perfect location to call home!

In the first century, Nazareth would have been a quiet village. It was a small village. A village of non-importance. It was not directly on the trade route. This made it an ideal town to raise a family. Those villages directly on the trade route were often lacking in peace when caravans were passing through. During the first century, there was only one main road for traffic between Egypt and the center of Asia. It was the main and only road used for trade caravans. It passed by Nazareth near the foothills of Mount Tabor, some six miles to the west. This made it close enough to access but the village was not directly affected by daily caravan traffic. After the road passed the village, it turned north and went on into Lebanon toward the city of Damascus.

This is the Village of Nazareth that Jesus called his childhood home. A small quaint village on a hill. It was a village set apart and somewhat secluded from outside influences. Only caravans doing business with the village would bother to leave the main route and venture into town. The people of Judea, especially those from Jerusalem, considered themselves better than those who came from the villages of the Galilee region. The Galilee was considered the backwoods of Judea. These were the country hick towns. The socially sophisticated citizens of Jerusalem looked down upon all Galileans. They were considered country folk or backwoods hicks.

It is also interesting to look at the meaning of the word Nazareth. The name “Nazareth” means “separated, crowned, sanctified”. Another meaning meant “the guarded one.” (Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary) From what we know about the village and the geography of the time, the name was certainly a perfect fit. Even today, those words would be good words to describe the village, which sits apart from the modern-day Nazareth.

With the above history of Nazareth, we might say that the boy, Jesus, was a normal child of his time growing up in a small village. You might see a growing boy who was slightly rugged and sturdy. One who worked with his father in the carpenter’s shop and assisted his family at home with chores. An older brother who guided his younger siblings. A boy who played simple country games with his childhood friends. This would have been the childhood of a boy growing up in the village of Nazareth in the First Century. This is what you visualize when you walk the streets of the Village of Nazareth. Even today, the village is secluded and sets to one side of the modern city of Nazareth.

Nazareth is the center of Christianity in Israel. Almost 7,000 people are active members of the Roman Catholic Church. Many more are members of the Greek Orthodox and other Christian faiths. Nazareth is a city of religion and faith. It is a major stop on any pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It is a city that has a rich history and amazing archeology. It is probably best known as the place of the Annunciation, where Mary learned she had been chosen from God to birth the Christ Child.

The new city of Nazareth has a modern culture with fascinating Middle Eastern Charm. It is still set apart and you must choose to come there. It is definitely still off the beaten path. No pilgrimage would be complete without visiting this Holy Site. Not only is it important for pilgrims, but all those who value the history and archeology of Israel will find it an important place to visit. No Israel adventure would be complete without visiting Nazareth.

The modern city of Nazareth has quality accommodations and excellent restaurants. The food of this region is some of the best. The people are friendly and welcoming. If you have never embarked on an adventure to Israel, this is a good year to do so. You will have a very unique and fascinating experience as you walk in the steps of those who lived thousands of years ago.

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Other Articles on Nazareth

The Grotto Of The Annunciation
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Nazareth Street Food In Israel
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The Basilica Of The Annunciation
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Church Of Saint Joseph In Nazareth
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The Grotto Of The Annunciation

December 19, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

The Grotto Of The Annunciation

The Grotto of the Annunciation is the traditional place where the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary in Nazareth. This is another of the sanctuaries that are in the Christian Memorials of the Holy Land. The Grotto of Nazareth bears record to be the exact location in which the events in the Gospel account of the Annunciation took place. It was here that Mary heard the words of the Angel Gabriel. It also was here that she responded out of her heart. This is one of the most important sites for Christian pilgrims coming to the Holy Land. It is a magnificent shrine. The divine encounter and history of this grotto is summed up in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke:

The Birth of Jesus Foretold

Luke 1:26-38
26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,
27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.
28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.
32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.
37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.
38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

On entering the Grotto of the Annunciation, you will see the remains of the natural rock walls that formed the original room. It is amazing how much remains. Because of the humidity, much of the original rock has crumbled over the years. It was replaced with sections of white stonework. The ceiling also underwent a few cosmetic changes in the past. Earlier religious groups wanted to make the Grotto seem like a chapel, so they made it slightly rounded. Recently, several holes were made to ensure good ventilation coming into the grotto. Because of the high humidity inside, it has significant deterioration.

The main altar (shown in the picture above) bears an inscription in Latin: “Verbum caro hic factum est.” The translation in English is: “Here” the Word became flesh. Until the latter part of the last century, there were five other altars in the Grotto. There is a small grotto to the north, further inside the Grotto. It is shaped in a half circle and has had an ancient altar within. It was dedicated to Saint Joseph centuries ago. Currently there is a column that holds the tabernacle.

Also visible down in the lower level are the partial remains of the Byzantine and Crusader churches that preceded the Basilica of the Annunciation. These ruins are surprisingly in good shape, considering their age. The original architecture is intriguing! Behind the altar of the Annunciation is a separate grotto. This grotto is thought to be Mary’s kitchen. Can you visualize dinner being served? You can get to the grotto by a stairway that is built into the wall off to the side of the main grotto.

Currently, the Basilica of the Annunciation is the parish church for 7,000 Catholics who live in the town of Nazareth. The basilica and the Grotto are two major Holy Sites for Catholic and Protestant pilgrims. It is of interest to all who value the History of the Holy Land. If you haven’t made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land or embarked on an Israel Adventure, this would be a great time to book your Holy Land experience. Dust off your bag and locate your passport. See you in the Holy Land.

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Nazareth Street Food In Israel

November 18, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Nazareth Street Food In Israel

Nazareth Street Food emerges from the alleyways, and the private kitchens. It is now on the boulevards and streets. of Nazareth. Nazareth is Israel’s largest Arab city. Nazareth Street Food has been influenced by the neighboring Arab countries. Nazareth Street Food is a world without roofs. No walls are needed in these open kitchens. Take time to explore the streets and alleyways of Nazareth. Open the pots! Take a deep breath! Nazareth Street Food is the best in the Middle East. Walk the streets and discover the most popular of all the street food. Taste the unusual! Stumble on the most extraordinary treats. Track down these open air kitchens. Find the tastiest Nazareth food in the Middle East. Come on out to the street.

Nazareth Street Food is a blend of cuisines from Israel and her Arab neighbors. Syria and Lebanon have a very obvious effect on the cuisine of Nazareth. It is an Arab belief that nature has all that is good for us. It is the best there is. It is the freshest. It is tasty. Nature provides man with all his needs. Nazareth Street Food is a blend of fresh meats, fresh fish from the Mediterranean Sea, and local fruits and vegetables. Israel has some of the best tasting figs and dates in the market. Take time to sample all the fruits that grow in the fertile land of Israel.

People all over the world have discovered the Prickly pear cactus. In Mexico and Central America it is a stable of their daily diet. In the United States it is a newly found gourmet food. Prickly pear cactus is one of the more exotic finds among the Nazareth Street Foods. Take time to taste this tasty street food. Figs are another delightful street food. Figs are especially good. Many people like a nice fresh fig with blue cheese. When exploring Nazareth Street Food finds, you will be able to try many new and different fruits and vegetables. There are vendors on every street and coroner. A trip to Nazareth is not complete with discovering the different street foods. Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore the streets of Nazareth.

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The Basilica Of The Annunciation

November 17, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

The Basilica Of The Annunciation

The Basilica of the Annunciation in the city of Nazareth, Israel, is a completely modern Catholic Church. This Catholic Church was built over the ruins of both the Byzantine and crusader churches. It includes the original cave in which the Virgin Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel. Here she received the news that she, a virgin, would give birth to Jesus. The announcement of the Incarnation by the angel Gabriel to Mary is documented for us in the New Testament Book of Luke.

Luke 1:30-33
“And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.
He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.”

Luke also records her answer in the same book: ““Let it be done to me according to your word.”

Little is known about the early history of Nazareth. The historian Eusebius tells us that Nazareth was a small village during the Roman and Byzantine period of history. The historian Africanus shares about some of the early Jewish converts to Christianity in Nazareth during the third century. His writings also talk about the first known pilgrimage to Nazareth in the latter part of the fourth century. Another book which also adds credence to the annunciation is the Quran. The book of Sura in the Quran also gives an account of the annunciation.

Inside The Basilica Of The Annunciation there is a cave below the current church. The cave was enshrined no latter than the fourth century. It is simple and beautiful! There is no knowledge about the first church to be built on the site. Most Catholic historians agree that one was most likely there by the early part of the fourth century. Early church writings talk about an altar on the site in 384 AD. It is not known if this was at the cave or if there was already a church built on the site. The first mention of a church in the early church writings is in the year 570 AD. Regardless of whether a chapel existed or a church, for sure the Annunciation was honored in early church times.

There was a Byzantine church on at this site that is known to have survived into the latter part of the ninth century. In the writings of 12 monks in the year 808 the church was still standing. In the year of 680 a pilgrim named Arculf recorded two churches in Nazareth. One at Mary’s spring, and one on the current site of The Basilica of The Annunciation. The history is a little sketchy about these early years, but for sure we know that there were early churches on the site where the Basilica of the Annunciation stands today.

We do know a little more about the Crusader church built on the current site of the Basilica of the Annunciation. It was much larger than the little Byzantine church. The Crusaders spent a lot of money on the decorating of this Church. The house of Mary was well covered by the Crusader Church. The Crusaders ordered majestic capitals carved by French wood-carvers. Each capital had a scene taken from the lives of the Apostles. Also on the site were monastery buildings. On the north side of the church was a bishop’s palace. There are many writings about the Crusader church. This was indeed a magnificent architectural wonder.

The Basilica of the Annunciation is a very ornate church. It is an extremely beautiful building. It is one of the most amazing churches in the Middle East. There is an ornately carved triple-doorway which has scenes from the early life of the Holy family. Carved in Latin above the triple-doorway entrance are the words: “Haec est porta vitae aeternae,” Translated it reads; “This is the gate to eternal life.” This two story Basilica of the Annunciation was built in a modern architectural design. The sanctuary is extremely colorful. The stained glass windows throughout show different stages of the life of Jesus and his parents. The Basilica of the Annunciation was completed in the year of 1969. It is the largest Christian church in the entire Middle East. It is also one of the most beautiful!

The Basilica of the Annunciation is actually two churches. There is the one you visit on the lower floor. It centers on the grotto or cave where the annunciation is believed to have taken place. There are visible remains of the Byzantine and Crusader Churches. There is also a parish church on the upper floor for the local Catholic Community of Nazareth. The large upper church has mosaics of the Virgin from all over the world. These mosaics are spectacular! Each are hand done. They were each donated from the country of origin.

On top of one part of the Basilica of the Annunciation is a beautiful cupola. Within the cupola is a large and beautiful lantern. The lantern is a symbol to all. It is telling the world that Jesus is the light of the world. This fantastic cupola is a dominating influence on modern day Nazareth. It is always shinning on special occasions and during festivals.

The Basilica of the Annunciation has a unique concrete dome on the top of another section of the building. It is in the shape of a Madonna lily. The Madonna lily is one of the symbols for the Virgin Mary. Also you will often see bouquets of Madonna lilies placed around the church to honor the Virgin.

This is indeed one of the fabulous sights that you will see in your Nazareth Adventure. The city of Nazareth has many splendid sights to see. The Basilica of The Annunciation should be on the top of every visitors list of places to explore.

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Church Of Saint Joseph In Nazareth

November 16, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Church Of Saint Joseph In Nazareth

The Basilica Of The Annunciation and The Church Of Saint Joseph’s Carpentry are located on the same piece of land. Together they make a rather large complex. The Church of Saint Joseph is simple, whereas the Annunciation Basilica is much more ornate.

Nestled between the two churches is a large Franciscan convent. The convent is called Terra and means simply “Holy Land.” In front of the Terra-Santa convent, near the entrance, are a small collection of relics that were found by archaeologists when the grounds were excavated. It is a fascinating collection of artifacts letting you explore the time of the Byzantine and Crusaders. What an amazing and fun experience!

There is a fantastic garden between the churches belonging to the convent. Not only are there many beautiful plants and native trees in the garden, but several statutes. There is a large statue of a Franciscan Monk that is most spectacular. Also in the year 2000 a statue of the Virgin Mary was placed in the garden.

The Church Of Saint Joseph is a beautiful building with simple lines. It was built on the foundations of the ancient Crusader church.When you enter the sanctuary, you quickly see that it is tastefully done, but not ornate. It is very attractive and stylish. You quickly notice that there is a simple wooden crucifix in the center behind the altar. Sitting at the back is a plain wooden tabernacle where the Eucharist is kept. On the sides are several colorful statues and stained glass windows are all around. The windows are outstanding and depict the life of Jesus as a boy with his parents.There is a very large statue of Saint Joseph and several of the Holy Family and Mary that are extremely beautiful. Everything about The Church Of Saint Joseph is very unpretentious. It is a simple, but beautiful Church.

The altar area of the Lower Church grotto incorporates the remains of previous churches that were built over the Grotto Of The Annunciation. There is a simple chapel in the lower church and many artifacts were used in the making of the chapel.

Steep stone stairs lead down to a chamber located below the Sanctuary. Under the church is a series of rock-cut caves that were used by those dwelling there during the Roman-period. One of the rock-cut cavities was converted to a Baptismal pool with a mosaic floor. The Byzantine worship place of the church which was built over the early cave incorporated the Jewish style of immersion into their worship plan. They had accepted the Jewish bathe commandment and built ritual baths in the church for this purpose. Stone steps lead down into the baptismal on the left.This beautiful basin is 21 square feet. It is cut out of the rock. The floor of the basin is complete with black and white mosaics. It is an example of the beautiful architecture of the Byzantine period. This rather simple but beautiful basin is thought to be a baptismal site that was in use from before the time of Constantine. Like everything else, this site is uniquely simple and beautiful. It has been preserved with great care.

To the side of the basin is a flight of rough steps leads down to a narrow passage. It makes a turn and then opens into an underground chamber that is over 6 feet high.This is the opening to a chamber where there were grain silos and a water cistern. These had been cut out the rock by early Roman dwellers. Such underground chambers were typical of first century Nazareth.

If you continue further down some more stone steps, you will come out into a very narrow passageway. Continue through this narrow passageway and you will enter a modest underground chamber. It is believed that this modest facility was the carpentry shop of Saint Joseph. The shop is basic and without frills. You will see some of the carpentry tools that would have been used in the shop. There is also tools that would suggest that Saint Joseph also worked with stone. Think about it, this is where he worked day after day. Walk in the footsteps of Jesus, as he would have helped Joseph as he grew older. Immerse yourself in the history of the Holy Land. Explore the living history of the Church of Saint Joseph!

The Church Of Saint Joseph was constructed over these sites as a way to protect them from being destroyed in any way. Even though the churches themselves have been destroyed several times, the relics below have been kept safe. The Church of Saint Joseph is well worth coming to see. The lower area is like walking back into the First Century. It is an amazing experience! You will want to go down below the church to see the relics which are being protected. Walk where Jesus walked! Stop to pray! Admire the home were Jesus lived as a boy. A Nazareth Adventure would not be complete without a stop at The Church Of Saint Joseph.

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‎Nazareth from the Mount of ‪‎Precipice

November 15, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

‎Nazareth from the Mount of ‪‎Precipice

‎Nazareth, from the top of Mount Precipice in Israel, lays out in all directions. What a majestic view. Mount Precipice, has had many names through the years. It is also known as the Mount of Precipitation, from which you have a beautiful view of ‎Nazareth and the Jezreel Valley. Mt Precipice is reached by car following the signs of “Mt Precipice” on the highway that bypasses ‎Nazareth. It is has perhaps the most magnificent view of ‎Nazareth, Israel. Exploring the top of the cliff adds a whole new dimension to your ‎Nazareth adventure. While on Mount Precipice you will have amazing views of the Yizrael or Jezreel Valley. Soak in the sights of the valley, the city of Afula, and spectacular Mount Tabor with its round top. Mount Precipice is located in the cliffs of Mount Kedumim. It is located just to the south of ‎Nazareth,

‎Nazareth is the Northern capital of Israel. It is the largest city in Northern Israel. It is a modern city. It is clean and well planned. The city of Nazareth is known as “the Arab capital of Israel.” Almost 66% of the population are Arabs with Israel citizenship. This is a city of religion, and belief. It has a deep-rooted spirituality. Several major religions can be found within her borders. It is a Christian, Jew, and Islamic Holy Site. The city has a rich and fascinating history. In recent years it has been the site of much archaeological interest. It is a modern city with a distinctive Middle Eastern flavor in its architecture and culture.

Archaeological research has discovered the remains of Kfar HaHoresh, a major cult center just two miles from the current modern city. This cult dates back almost 9000 years. They uncovered the remains of over 65 individuals that had been buried under a massive headstone. The decorated human skulls enabled archaeologists to identify the remains of this ancient cult. It is a fascinating discovery into the past.

Just a short walk from the city center and you can reach Nazareth Village. At the village, you will take a step back in time and find yourself immersed in the culture of Nazareth at the time that Jesus walked the streets. Whether you are interested in history, religion, or culture, Nazareth Village is the place to be. Here you can interact with the past and get a hands on education into what life was like at this time. Nazareth Village is quaint and educational.

In the Village of Nazareth, sheep and goats wander the streets, following their shepherds. Craftsmen build with wood, and weavers weave with wool. All are dressed in the clothing of the first century. You will see villagers with baskets of olives on their way to the olive press. Children play in the streets and pick the ripe pomegranates when in season. You will be able to stand on a wine-press that dates back to the first century. History, religion, archaeology, and culture all come alive.

In the modern city of Nazareth, you will find plenty of accommodations and local cafes. It is a completely modern city in every aspect/ You will find museums,Holy sites, shops, shopping malls, major restaurants, and side-walk cafes. Nazareth is an excellent place to begin your Israel adventure. And the time to book your trip is today.

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Mount Precipice In Northern Israel

September 22, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Mount Precipice In Northern Israel

Mount Precipice lies just to the south of the small village of Nazareth. Nazareth was the childhood home of Jesus. Mount Precipice is hidden among the cliffs of Mt Kedumim. This is thought to be the traditional site where an angry mob tried to throw Jesus off the cliff. Jesus had just made his bold proclamation as to who he was in their Nazareth synagogue. (Luke 4:16-30). He ended his discourse by telling them that a prophet had no honor in his own land. That did it, and the people ran him out of the town. They attempted to get him on the mount. There they thought to throw him off the cliff. It was here that he went out from among them.

Mount Precipice is a beautiful mount. It offers a panoramic view of the checkered Jezreel Valley. It is magnificent! The Jezreel Valley is a large fertile plain that lays to the south of the Lower Galilee. The Jezreel Valley has some of the most rich and fertile farmland in all of Israel. It is a place with many beautiful views. The Jezreel Valley is the agricultural bread basket of Israel. It is an area that is extremely rich in natural springs. The water tastes fantastic! It is clear and clean! It is abundant!

Gaze your eyes to the South and you will see the Samaritan Highlands.The Samaritan hills are low, seldom reaching even a half mile high. Samaria has a mild climate, and long growing season. Look further South and you will see Mount Gilboa. Mount Gilboa borders the Jezreel valley. Also look out at the South and you will see beautiful Mount Tabor. Come to Mount Tabor early in the morning for some of the most fantastic sunrises in the Land.

Look out to the North and see the Israeli city of Afula, the capital of the valley. It earned it’s name because of its strategic location in the Jezreel Valley. Gaze toward the Sea of Galilee and Tiberias comes into sight. Named for the Empire Tiberius, this city sits on the shores of the beautiful Sea of Galilee.

During the last century Mount Precipice was used as a quarry. It is now abandoned. Highway 60 goes through a tunnel dug in the mountain side. The tunnel is on the site of the old quarry. The tunnel connects Afula and the Jezreel Valley. The top of the Mount remains one of the most fantastic vistas in Israel.

In 2009,in preparation for the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Israel, a 40,000-seat outdoor stadium was built on the mount. This would forever change Mount Precipice. This magnificent stadium was added to the north side of Mount Precipice. It was at this stadium that Pope Benedict XVI said an open air mass for thousands of Roman Catholics.

Israel is beautiful! It is abundant in water! It is filled with fertile farmland. It is the Land of Milk and Honey! Come to Mount Precipice and gaze over the Land. Walk in the footsteps of Jesus…..take a step on the Jesus Road!

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Basilica Of The Annunciation

August 13, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Basilica Of The Annunciation

The Basilica of the Annunciation is one of the world’s Holy sites for Christian pilgrims. It is magnificent! The Basilica is a Roman Catholic Church in Nazareth. Nazareth is located in Northern Israel. It is an oasis in the desert! How beautiful the North is! The Basilica of the Annunciation was built at the traditional site where it is believed that the Angel Gabriel announced the birth of Jesus. This story is found in the Gospels in Luke 1: 26-38. This is an extremely important site to Catholic and Orthodox pilgrims. The church was built at the location where, according to Roman Catholic tradition, the annunciation took place.

The Greek Orthodox tradition holds that this event occurred elsewhere. They believe it was while Mary was getting water from a local spring in Nazareth. The Greek Orthodox built the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation at the site of this spring. It also is extremely beautiful! The stain glass windows are fantastic. The colors are bright! It is joyful! Nazareth invites you to spend the day or spend the week. The Basilica has something for everyone!

The towering cupola of the Basilica stands over the city of Nazareth. It is over the cave that tradition holds to be the childhood home of Mary. This cave is located beneath the modern Roman Catholic Church. Inside, at the lower level, contains the Grotto of the Annunciation. This is believed by Roman Catholics to be the location of the original childhood home of Mary. As is often the case, churches are built up over Holy sites to protect them from destruction. The site has been well protected. The Basilica is very beautiful! The stained glass windows are breathtaking! The architectural detail is magnificent! Come explore with us! Adventure is in the air!

The Basilica of the Annunciation was built in 1969. It is a massive two story building overlooking Nazareth. It is on the site of both Crusader and Byzantine ruins. For Roman Catholics, The Basilica of the Annunciation is considered a major Holy site. All Roman Catholic pilgrims consider this an important site in which to visit. It is here they come to pray! The gardens around the Basilica are magnificent! There is a sense of peace! Tranquility is in the air.

The Basilica is a beautiful building. The architecture is amazing! The building is massive! It is actually two churches. The upper church is the local parish church for the Catholic community in Nazareth. It is an active community! The cupola stands high above the town of Nazareth. At the top of the cupola is a lantern! It symbolizes that Jesus is the Light of the World. The door leading into the church is hand carved. It depicts the different stages of the life of Jesus. Above the triple doorway entrance to the church are written the words of John 1:14 in Latin. This is a fantastic place! You can relax! Joy is in the air! Come join us for a time of peaceful visitation! History is everywhere at the Basilica. Peace abounds! The beauty is amazing! The Basilica of the Annunciation is majestic. Thanks to its extraordinary geographical, historical and cultural diversity, Nazareth is magnificent! The people are friendly! The history is amazing! The weather is perfect! Nazareth is a city that really is very different.

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