Set along the “Via Maris”, excavations at Megiddo yielded 25 successive layers of human occupations, from the Neolithic period (about 10,000 years ago) up to its final abandonment in the 5th century BCE. Even later, the Romans set a military camp at the site’s foothill, whose remains have been excavated recently. The site’s most famous discoveries are stables and fortifications attributed to King Solomon. However, today some scholars attribute them to King Ahab or King Jeroboam II, of the northern kingdom of Israel. The site also provided significant finds from Canaanite times, yet most visitors are fascinated by its possible futuristic role. By Christian faith Megiddo is identified with Armageddon, a site that will witness an apocalyptic battle according to the Book of Revelation (16:16).
On the way to Caesarea, a brief stop near Migdal Ha’emek reveals a remarkable 1st century burial site. Here, a massive circular rolling stone still guards the entrance to the rock-cut tomb, offering a vivid visual of ancient burial customs. The impressive preservation of the stone and chamber sparks a striking parallel to the Gospel description of Jesus’ own tomb. Standing before it, visitors can better imagine the dramatic moment when the stone was rolled away.
After a lunch break we will reach Caesarea. Nestling along the northern shores of Israel, Caesarea was founded in the 1st century BCE by king Herod. This ambitious Kim defied nature by forming in Caesarea the biggest man-made port in its time. Today, much of his port is submerged, visible only by snorkeling or scuba diving, but along the shore there is still much to appreciate.If you wish to add some special activities in Caesarea we can offer the following:
Snorkeling – The submerged port of Caesarea can still be appreciated by snorkeling or scuba diving along the sunken harbor. Caesarea’s underwater archaeological park, the first of its kind in the world, is about 40 acres in size. It contains 25 points of interest, that includes ruins of the port, ancient anchors, and a sunken ship from the early 20th century.
EZRaider – A 2-hour extreme tour experience of driving in special mini ATV apt for sand dunes. The tour mostly explores mostly the perimeter of the Caesarea’s national park, including the Birds Mosaic Mansion, the aqueduct, The Synagogue, the Eastern Hippodrome, ending near Caesarea’s golf course.
Powered parachute flights – The ultimate extreme tour experience for Caesarea! The special aircraft takes off from the sites’ parking lot and flies low and slow above Caesarea’s antiquities and along the coastline. This experience guarantees an adrenalin rush and stunning views of one of the most beautiful views in Israel!
