Guided Daily Tours to Safed

**Sight in Israel: The Mystical City of Safed**

Israel, a nation steeped in history, culture, and spirituality, has always held a special allure for travelers. With its vast landscapes that vary from the lush Galilee in the north to the desert expanses of the Negev in the south, Israel offers sights that cater to an array of interests. Among its gems, one city stands out not just for its physical beauty but also for its deep spiritual significance: Safed, or Tzfat in Hebrew.

**Geographical Allure**

Located more than 900 meters above sea level in the mountains of the Upper Galilee, Safed is the highest city in Israel. This elevation grants its visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. On a clear day, one can even catch a glimpse of the sparkling waters of the Sea of Galilee in the distance.

**Historical Significance**

Historically, Safed is known as one of the Four Holy Cities of Judaism, the others being Jerusalem, Hebron, and Tiberias. Its significance in Jewish history is profound. In the 16th century, following the expulsion of the Jews from Spain, many prominent Jewish scholars and mystics found refuge in Safed, making it a major center for Kabbalah, or Jewish mysticism.

**Interesting Fact**: The 16th century was Safed's Golden Age, during which the city became the spiritual center of the Jewish world. The city was home to prominent rabbis and Kabbalists like Rabbi Isaac Luria (known as the Ari) and Rabbi Joseph Caro, the author of the Shulchan Aruch, which is a codification of Jewish law.

**Spiritual Epicenter**

The presence of such luminaries turned Safed into a hub for Jewish learning and spirituality. The cobblestone alleyways of its Old City whisper tales of mysticism and miracles. As you walk through these ancient streets, you'll encounter synagogues that date back centuries, each with its own unique history and stories of miracles. The Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue and the Abuhav Synagogue are among the most notable.

**Interesting Fact**: The Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue is believed to be located on a spot where the Ari, Rabbi Isaac Luria, would often pray. The synagogue was built after his passing, and many believe that the site is infused with spiritual energy.

**Artists' Colony**

Apart from its religious significance, Safed is also renowned as an artists' colony. In the 1950s and 60s, many artists were drawn to the city's enchanting atmosphere and established their homes and studios there. Today, the Artists' Quarter is a colorful and vibrant part of Safed, with galleries displaying a diverse range of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and Judaica.

**Interesting Fact**: Every summer, Safed hosts the Klezmer Festival, which celebrates Klezmer music, a traditional form of Jewish folk music. The festival attracts musicians and visitors from all over the world, transforming the city into a musical extravaganza.

**Land of Legends**

Safed is a city of stories. One famous legend speaks of a hidden tunnel that connects the ancient synagogues of Safed directly to the Western Wall in Jerusalem. While this tunnel has never been found, the story beautifully illustrates the deep spiritual connection between these two holy cities.

**Local Customs**

A unique custom associated with Safed is the practice of creating "Tzfat Candles". These are intricately braided and twisted candles that are often used for Shabbat and other Jewish ceremonies. The artistry behind these candles is mesmerizing, and watching craftsmen at work in local shops is a treat in itself.

**Conclusion**

Safed, with its intertwining lanes and ancient stone buildings, seems to exist in a time of its own. Its charm lies not just in its historical and spiritual richness but also in its vibrant art scene and the warmth of its inhabitants. For those seeking a journey that nourishes both the soul and the senses, Safed offers an experience like no other. Whether you're drawn to its religious history, its artistic offerings, or simply the promise of a mesmerizing view from its mountaintop location, Safed is a testament to Israel's diverse and profound cultural heritage.