Massada

Massada, Israel

Massada

What is Massada?

Massada is one of the most prolific and awe inspiring monuments in Israel. Massada, Israel is located on the top of a high cliff that reaches several hundred meters up and overlooks the Judean Desert and gives visitors a scenic look at the Dead Sea. Massada is Hebrew for fortress and was originally built by Herod the Great to serve as a safe haven for himself. Herod built the fortress sometime between 37 and 31 B.C. was known as a master builder with a keen eye for detail.

History

At the beginning of the Jewish revolt the people overthrew the fortress and declared it their base, where they fended off the Romans for well over two years. When the Romans finally overtook the fortress over one thousand of the Jews and zealots committed suicide since they were completely opposed to being taken captive by the Romans. The heroic story of Massada has captivated the minds of scholars and spiritual people for centuries. In 1842 the site of the fortress was finally identified, but it wasn't until the 1960's that the site was completely renovated by hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers. Massada is comprised of various sized bath houses, storerooms, villas, gates, living quarters, a synagogue, and even features a throne room along with Herod's personal palace.

Traveling Tips

Here are a few tips that will aid anyone that decides to take the journey up the steep cliff in Massada, Israel. Bring a water bottle, a hat, and sunscreen for the intense heat. To reach the fortress requires following a winding snake path that twists and turns up to the top of the cliff. This is a physical challenge and anyone that takes the snake path should be physically and mentally prepared by being in shape and bringing the appropriate equipment.