Excursion «187. Belvoir. Source Ayub. Tamar ba-Kfar»

In the 12th century, the French nobleman Velos found himself in the Jordan River Valley, on the Naftali Plateau, 20 kilometers south of the Sea of Galilee. He initiated the construction of a fortress, which was later named Belvoir. The architectural style featured symmetrical structures, with each wall strictly in a square form. The fortified towers, positioned at the corners and sides, were also square-shaped. In 1168, the completed fortress was handed over to the Hospitallers, an order dedicated to protecting the less fortunate. Belvoir had the capability to withstand attacks, even from heavy siege weaponry. Its defensive strength was proven in 1180 when it successfully repelled enemy assaults. Two years later, Belvoir became the witness of a fierce battle between King Baldwin IV of Jerusalem and Saladin.

The fortress fell in 1220 when it was destroyed by conquerors led by the ruler of Damascus. However, the structure couldn't be completely eradicated from the landscape. Today, the ruins of Belvoir stand in contrast to the scenery of the Naftali Plateau, illustrating the history of a people who endured many sufferings and wars but maintained their national roots.

Centuries later, in 1966, archaeological excavations and research began on the site of the Hospitaller fortress, adding new facts to the existing pages of history.

Today, Belvoir Fortress is part of a museum complex. Adjacent to it is a park adorned with numerous sculptures. Scholars continue to debate the appropriateness of this combination of a park and fortress ruins, while thousands of tourists annually visit the site, ascending to the half-kilometer-high plateau and contributing to the preservation of history through their interest.

According to Muslim tradition, the water of the spring in the area once cured the leprosy of Ayub (Job). The small cave, from which the spring flows, served as a reliable refuge for Ayub. Travelers today still seek a sip of the healing water, believing in its magical properties that have been preserved through the ages.

And this is not the only spring along the coast of the Sea of Galilee. Starting from Tabgha and extending to Ayub, these locations have long been favored by fishermen. From January to April, they return home with a rich catch, turning fishing into both a profession and a tradition. Even the Bedouins, who settled in the late 19th century, participated in this pursuit and became skilled in fishing. Their settlement was even named Arab al-Samakieh, where "Samak" means "fish" in Arabic. The tomb of Sheikh Ali al-Tsayyad, the fisherman, is also located here. Today, these places are officially referred to as Kibbutz Ein Gev, meaning "Fisher's Area."

If your journey leads you to the village of Kinneret, a visit to the date palm plantation is a must. The plantation, named "Tamara Ba-Kfar," meaning "Date in the Village," is owned and managed by Yehuda Schneiderman. Everything here exudes tranquility and peace, and even the noise from sporadically passing scooters and cars does not disturb the serenity and vibrant colors of the village.

Yehuda Schneiderman immediately garners sympathy with his distinguished gray hair, kind smile, and expressive eyes that instantly draw people in. Guests, regardless of their origin, are welcomed with a cup of fragrant coffee and a tour of the plantation. Initially hidden behind the wide palm umbrellas, the beautiful and exotic garden can be seen by taking the lift, revealing a flourishing oasis that owes its existence to the hard work of Yehuda and his diligent family. In return, it yields magnificent fruits - dates - which are not only a delicious treat but also possess healing properties.

Thematic excursion on September 18!

Order cancellation conditions: If the excursion is canceled in less than 2 days – 100% penalty, if transfer – 50%, if travel insurance has not been purchased.

• People who are late and do not go on the excursion will not receive a refund.
• The company is not responsible for lost items.
• Requests for excursions for children under 5 years old are not accepted
• Responsibility for having an individual insurance policy falls on the tourist.
• Tourists may wait up to 30 minutes for the bus.
• The company reserves the right to change the departure time for the excursion, which is communicated to the tourist the day before.
• There is no indication of seats on the bus. Boarding and disembarking  carried out only in designated places.
• Visiting holy places is permitted only in modest clothing (shoulders and knees must be covered).
• Physical activity level: 3/5

We recommend: bring drinking water, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes with you on the excursion.

The cost of trips does not include and is paid on the spot: meals, unless purchased additionally.