Understand

On a breathtaking rock plateau, surrounded by steep cliffs, lies the majestic fortress known as Masada. Built by King Herod the Great in BCE, this fortified palace complex became a refuge for a group of Jewish rebels known as the Zealots during the Jewish rebellion against Rome. After seven years, the Zealots met their tragic fate at the hands of the Roman army. The tale of a mass suicide has been passed down through history, but recent archaeological findings have cast doubts on this story. Despite the debate, Masada holds a special place in Jewish history and symbolizes both the tragic downfall and the resilience of the Jewish people.

Get in

Masada, a magnificent ancient fortress located near the Dead Sea in Israel, offers two main access points for visitors. Most people choose to access Masada from the eastern side near Road 90, which runs along the beautiful Israeli coast. However, for the more adventurous traveler, there is the less used option of taking Road 3199 from Arad to the western side of Masada. This road leads to a parking lot, and from there, you can embark on a thrilling and relatively easy 15-20 minute ascent to the top. If you prefer to travel by bus, there are convenient options available. Line 486 provides a direct route from Jerusalem or Ein Gedi, while line 421 operates from Tel Aviv Arlozorov - Terminal 2000, passing through Ein Bokek. The buses will drop you off at the main entrance from Road 90, but do keep in mind that the tickets can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from 40 shekels from Jerusalem (36 shekels with a student discount). It's good to plan accordingly. For those seeking a hassle-free and comprehensive experience, many daily tours offer guided visits to Masada. These tours can be combined with other exciting destinations such as the Dead Sea, Ein Gedi, Qumran, and more. Whether you prefer a self-guided tour or a fully guided one, these tours cater to different preferences and budgets, ranging in price from approximately $60 to $115. If you want to explore the various options and compare public transportation versus guided tours, check out this informative guide on [link=https://www.touristisrael.com/get-dead-sea-masada/11965/]how to visit Masada[/link].

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Shakshuka - This iconic Israeli dish consists of eggs poached in a vibrant tomato sauce seasoned with cumin, paprika, and chili peppers. It's typically cooked and served in a skillet, accompanied by fresh bread for dipping into the savory, slightly spicy mixture. Often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch, shakshuka can also be a satisfying vegetarian lunch or dinner option.

Falafel - These delicious, crispy fritters are made from ground chickpeas or sometimes fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices such as parsley, cilantro, garlic, and cumin. They're then deep-fried until golden brown and served in pita bread as part of a sandwich called a falafel wrap, often accompanied by tahini sauce, vegetables, and pickles. Falafel is a popular street food and a staple in Israeli and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Hummus - This classic Israeli dip or spread is made from mashed cooked chickpeas blended with lemon juice, garlic, and sesame paste (tahini). It's typically served as an appetizer or side dish, accompanied by fresh vegetables, pita bread, or other types of flatbread for scooping up the creamy, slightly tangy hummus. Hummus is a popular and versatile plant-based option that can be found throughout Israel and the Mediterranean region.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing