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

In the 12th century, a French nobleman named Velos found himself by fate's hand just twenty kilometers south of the Sea of Galilee, in the valley of the Jordan River. In this place, on the Naftali Plateau, rising 500 meters above sea level, he embarked on the construction of a fortress. He built a powerful stronghold with concentric walls.

The magnificent fortress of the Hospitallers - Belvoir.

The architectural style featured a symmetrical structure, with each wall strictly in a square shape. The reinforced towers, positioned at the corners and sides, were also square. In 1168, the completed fortress was handed over to the Hospitallers, an order whose mission was to protect the destitute. This fortress could literally defend against heavy siege weapons. Its destructive power was well-known, as Muslim attacks on the Kingdom of Jerusalem were relentless.

Belvoir Fortress proved its superiority by repelling enemy attacks in 1180. Two years later, it witnessed 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, they couldn't completely erase the structure from the face of the earth. Today, the ruins of Belvoir stand in stark contrast against the backdrop of the Naftali Plateau, illustrating the history of a people who have endured much suffering and wars, yet have preserved their national roots.

Centuries later, in 1966, archaeological excavations and research began on the territory of the Hospitallers' fortress, supplementing the existing pages of history with new facts.

Today, Belvoir Fortress is part of a museum complex. Adjacent to it is a park adorned with numerous sculptures. Scholars still debate the organic nature of this park and the ruins, questioning whether such a combination is appropriate. Nonetheless, thousands of tourists visit every year, ascending to the half-kilometer height and resolving this debate through their interest in history.

According to Muslim tradition, the water of the spring once cured the leprosy of Job (Ayub). The small cave from which this spring flows served as a reliable refuge for Job. Travelers today still do not refuse a sip of the healing water, as the belief in the magical properties of the spring remains strong.

And this is not the only spring on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. These places, from Tabgha to Ayub, have long been favored by fishermen who return home with a bountiful catch from January to April. It is both a livelihood and a tradition. Even the Bedouins, who became sedentary in the late 19th century, quickly embraced fishing and were referred to as "Arab al-Samakie," with "Samak" meaning "fish." The tomb of Sheikh Ali al-Tsayad (the fisherman) is also located here. Today, these places are officially known as Khalat al-Samak, which translates to "Fishermen's District."

If your journey takes you to the village of Kinneret, a visit to the date palm plantation is a must. Its owner and the head of a hardworking family is Yehuda Shnaydman. The plantation is called "Tamar Ba-Kfar," meaning "Date in the Village."

Everything here is filled with peace and tranquility. Even the noise from the sporadic motor scooters and cars passing by on the nearby highway does not disrupt the serenity and vibrancy of the village.

Yehuda Shnaydman immediately evokes sympathy with his noble gray hair, kind smile, and expressive eyes that captivate anyone who meets him. Guests, no matter where they come from, are welcomed with a cup of aromatic coffee and a tour of the plantation. It is not immediately visible, as it is hidden behind wide palm umbrellas. But by using the lift, one can witness a beautiful and exotic garden that thrives and grows thanks to human care, offering equally beautiful fruits - dates, which are both a delicacy and a healing treat.

Order cancellation conditions:

If a tourist cancels an excursion less than 3 days in advance – penalty 100%.

Important:

• The company is not responsible for lost items.
• Responsibility for having an individual insurance policy falls on the tourist.
• Visiting holy places is permitted only in modest clothing. Open T-shirts, short shorts and skirts above the knee are not allowed (shoulders and knees must be covered); women must wear a headscarf when entering temples and other holy places.

We recommend: 

Bring drinking water, a hat, sunglasses with you on the excursion

The cost of trips does not include and is paid on the spot:

• Food
• Paid entrances