Galilee Day 2

Quite a different sort of day today. Ibrahim took us up into the Golan heights in the far north, close to the border with Syrian. We went first to Banias (=Caesarea Philippi where Peter made his famous declaration about Jesus) . This is the site of one of the sources of the Jordan river, and it was the first time I had seen water flowing in such quantities since we arrived here . There was a huge cliff backdrop and the remains of various temples and shrines to Pan and other pagan gods.

We carried on a few minutes down the road to Tel Dan, where again it was a treat to find plenty of fast-flowing water and lots if greenery. Ibrahim led us on a short walk in the bush (if not quite like NZ bush, at least the closest thing to it so far encountered!) We stopped at a pool somewhere in the middle and met a friendly group of Bermudans. Three of our number, who hail from Churton Park Anglican in Wellington got talking to their leader and mentioned that their new vicar is from Bermuda. When they mentioned the name he became very excited as it turned out that he and some of his group knew the man in question. There were photos taken and quite a buzz among the Bermudans (less so among the kiwis who are more used to being able to find a common connection no matter what part of the world we run into each other!) At the end of our walk we saw some pretty impressive archaeological remains, including an arched gate that was nearly 4000 years old.

From there to town called Zafet (sp?), apparently the highest city in the holy land. It had an artists' quarter which we spent a pleasant hour or two exploring. Lots of little artisan shops selling locally made jewellery, ceramics, glassware paintings, etc. Many of us returned to the bus a bit less encumbered with cash. Prices were not unreasonable and I bought a couple of pieces of jewellery there.Read more