The Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition in Tbilisi was originally built in the 6th and 7th centuries but was subsequently destroyed by foreign invaders and reconstructed several times. The current church is based on a 13th-century version. Named after Mount Zion at Jerusalem, it is commonly known as the “Tbilisi Sioni”. READ MORE -> Here Alexander Griboyedov and Nina Chavchavadze got married and one of the most important shrines of the country is kept - the cross of St. Nina, the enlightener of Georgia.

Founded in 1106 in the west of Georgia, the Monastery of Gelati is a masterpiece of the Golden Age of medieval Georgia, a period of political strength and economic growth between the 11th and 13th centuries. It is characterized by the facades of smoothly hewn large blocks, balanced proportions and blind arches for exterior decoration. The Gelati monastery, one of the largest medieval Orthodox monasteries, was also a centre of science and education and the Academy it housed was one of the most important centres of culture in ancient Georgia. READ MORE ->

Rustaveli Avenue in central Tbilisi is named after the medieval Georgian poet, Shota Rustaveli. The Avenue starts at Freedom Square and extends for about 1.5 km. Small bronze statues of old Georgian characters line both sides of the avenue for much of its length. The statues were sculpted by talented young Georgian artist Levan Bujiashvili (Georgian: ლევან ბუჯიაშვილი), whose sculptures can be found throughout Tbilisi. READ MORE ->

The Cathedral of King Bagrat in Kutaisi ranks among the best monuments of Georgian architecture. The constructions began in the last quarter of the 10th century and ended in 1003, during the time of flourishing feudal economy and culture in Georgia. The acropolis rose on a hill above the right bank of the Rioni River. From the 10th to the 13th century, Kutaisi was a prosperous city. The town, located 236km (146 miles) west of Tbilisi serves as the capital of Imereti and the second largest city in Georgia, lying on both sides of the Rioni River. According to some scholars during the late Bronze Age (1300 BC) Kutaisi was the capital of King Aeetes, Medea's father who possessed the Golden Fleece. The first king of a unified Georgia, Bagrat III (975-1014) commissioned the cathedral which stood intact for seven hundred years. Even in its present ruined state, you cannot but feel the grandeur and nobility of the structure and sense of power and wonder. The Cathedral of Bagrat is a triconch with protruding sidearms to form the cross. Several years after the completion of the cathedral, a three-story residential tower was added to the left side of the west façade which probably served as the king's quarters or as the residence of the local archbishop. After the completion of the cathedral a richly ornamented portico with open arches was added to the southwest sides. Two decades later, this concept was repeated in front of the entryways on the west and south sides. These later embellishments were marked by elaborate, deeply incised stone carvings. Mythical animals, human faces, and sometimes human faces on animal bodies predominate here, usually intertwined with rich leaf motifs. READ MORE ->

Clifftop orthodox monastery dating to circa 590 CE, featuring bas-relief carvings on the facade.-Google.

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 It is situated on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari (http://en.guide/s/RcUPTnKV) and Aragvi rivers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

History:

The Jvari Monastery (http://en.guide/s/wqJOeOSZ) has a rich history that dates back to the 6th century. It was built during the reign of King Dachi Ujarmeli, who introduced Christianity to Georgia (http://en.guide/s/KZMtBUJ6). The monastery was constructed on the site where Saint Nino, a female evangelist, erected a cross made of grapevines.

The original church, known as the 'Small Church of Jvari,' was built as a small wooden structure. Over time, it was replaced by a larger, centrally planned church made of stone. This church was then expanded and renovated in the 7th and 11th centuries.

Description:

The Jvari Monastery (http://en.guide/s/wqJOeOSZ) features a combination of architectural styles, including Byzantine and Georgian. The central church, known as the 'Great Church of Jvari,' is a masterpiece of early medieval Georgian architecture. It is constructed on a cruciform plan and is adorned with intricate stone carvings.

The interior of the church is relatively simple, with a small altar and a few religious icons. The walls are adorned with frescoes that depict various biblical scenes and saints. The church also houses a stone cross that is believed to have been erected by Saint Nino.

Surrounding the church, there are several other structures that make up the Jvari Monastery complex. These include a bell tower, a small chapel, and remnants of ancient defensive walls. The complex is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful and serene place to visit.

Visiting the Jvari Monastery:

The Jvari Monastery (http://en.guide/s/wqJOeOSZ) is located approximately 20 kilometers from the capital city of Tbilisi (http://en.guide/s/B0Jd5BnA). It is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Visitors can climb the hill on foot or take a taxi to reach the monastery.

When visiting the Jvari Monastery, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, as it is an active religious site. Women should cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.

Many battles took place at this historic castle complex with 2 churches & scenic river views. -Google.

Ananuri is a fortress situated on the foreland by the Aragvi River, not far from Zhinvali water reservoir and about 70 km from Tbilisi, Georgia. It was built by the Dukes of Aragvi and its earliest parts date from the 13th century.

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There are two churches within the notched fortress walls, as well as a 12th century watchtower. The frescoes of the churches have faded, but the frescoes around the doors and on the outer walls are still colorful. Below the citadel at the base of the green hills, the blue waters of the Zhinvali reservoir glisten, making it one of Georgia’s most picturesque places.

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him…” (Matthew 3:16-17) The authenticity of this site is as pure as the testimonies from the gospels, the pilgrims, and travelers that have visited this cherished site. The archaeological sites discovered and the associated studies carried out recently show the remains of five churches uniquely designed and built since the 5th century as memorials of Jesus baptism. In addition, the mosaic map of the Holy Land where the site is depicted. Finally, all this is crowned by the official letters sent to the Royal Commission by many heads of churches around the world.

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This is one of only two of Jordan’s Desert castles that seem to be built for defense. But here this may be more apparent than real – the ‘arrow-slits’ are too high and small and must have been for air and light. Nor was it a caravanserai as it is not on a trade route. Most likely it was a place where the Umayyad rulers could meet with bedouin of the desert, to negotiate their support. In one of the upper room’s a painted Kufic inscription over a door bears the date 92 Mi (AD 710-I I), in the reign of Walid I, but it is unclear if this refers to the original construction or a later rebuilding. READ MORE ->

South of Madaba on the old King's Highway is Kerak, which was the capital of the biblical kingdom of Moab. Perched atop a steep hill, Kerak is a predominantly Christian town dominated by the largest and best preserved of the Crusader castles in the region. READ MORE -> Karak Castle was a crusader castle built during the twelfth century and was initially called Crac Des Moabites. It is also the biggest crusader castle ever to have been constructed in the Levant, and following its completion, it became the center of power for the rulers of the time. READ MORE ->

Build in 1184. Ajloun Castle is one of the greatest examples of Islamic Ayyubid military architecture. The first stage of construction began ca.1184 by General Izzidin Usama, nephew of Salahuddin AL Ayyoubi, who built it on a hill 1100 meters above sea level. READ MORE ->

Deep in the heart of Amman nestles the Roman Theatre, Amman’s most famous archaeological artifact. Under Roman rule, Amman was chosen as the glittering capital of the Roman Empire, but the city was then called Philadelphia, after its Ptolemaic ruler, Philadelphus.

The theatre was built in the period 138-161 CE, which dates back to the reign of Roman emperor Antoninus Pius. The sole centerpiece of the city, the magnificent masterpiece was designed to be northerly-oriented, to keep the sun off its spectators, and could seat up to 6,000 people on its steep stairs. Like any other Roman Theatre in the world, it was constructed upon the same three building blocks: the orchestra..

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The Roman Theater in Amman, Jordan, is an impressive archaeological site that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is located on As-Safsaf Street in the heart of downtown Amman. The theater is one of the most significant remnants of the Roman city of Philadelphia, which was the capital of the region during Roman rule.

History:

The construction of the Roman Theater is believed to have begun during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161 AD) and was completed during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD). The theater was primarily used for performances of plays, musical concerts, and other cultural events. It could accommodate around 6,000 spectators, making it one of the largest theaters in the Roman Empire.

Description:

The Roman Theater is built into the side of a hill, providing a natural slope for seating. It consists of three main sections: the auditorium, the orchestra, and the stage. The auditorium is divided into three tiers, with each tier having radial staircases for access. The seating area was originally divided into three distinct sections: one for the elite, one for the middle class, and one for the lower class.

The orchestra, located in front of the stage, was a semi-circular area where the musicians and chorus would perform. The stage itself was adorned with elaborate decorations, including columns, statues, and friezes. It served as the focal point for the performances.

Over the centuries, the Roman Theater suffered damage from earthquakes and other natural elements. However, it underwent extensive restoration in the 1950s and 1960s, preserving its historical and architectural significance. Today, the theater is a popular tourist attraction and is still used for cultural events and performances, including the annual Amman Citadel Festival

Visitors to the Roman Theater can explore the site, climb the seating tiers, and enjoy panoramic views of Amman's downtown area. The theater is also home to the Jordan Museum of Popular Traditions, which displays traditional costumes, handicrafts, and other artifacts from Jordan's cultural heritage.

In addition to the Roman Theater, the nearby Odeon, a smaller theater used for musical performances and lectures, is also worth a visit.

A mosaic map found on the floor of a 6th-century Byzantine church in Jordan offers a useful and unusual guide to the Old City of Jerusalem. This huge mosaic map once carpeted the floor of a 6th-century Byzantine church, built in Madaba at the height of the Eastern (Christianized) Roman Empire.

Today, the map adorns the interior of the Greek Orthodox church of St. George, built on the same spot at the end of the 19th century. The mosaic depicts the entire Holy Land, though several geographical areas have not survived, leaving large gaps in the map. Towns are indicated by small towers, a boon for scholars who knew of some of them from contemporary writings, but never knew their location. Jerusalem commands a central place on the mosaic, completely out of proportion to the scale of the map, but entirely in proportion to its historical and spiritual significance. The detail of the Holy City is remarkable, down to the level of identifiable structures.

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The town is small and perfect for day trip. The city of Zhovkva was founded in 1597 near the village of Vynnyky. At the end of XVI century Vynnyky became the property of Hetman Stanislav Zholkevskyi. Hetman started the city construction in 1597 and the privilege of Magdeburg right was received in 1603 from the king Zygmund III Waza. The town was founded by the nobleman and statesman, Stanislaw Zholkovsky, and inherited his surname. He employed an Italian architect, Paolo di Ducato Clemensi, to lay the town as an ideal town: the castle as the head, the market as the lungs, the town hall as the stomach, the city gates as the arms and legs, the churches as the heart. Today it is the only such surviving town in Ukraine. Zholkovsky died during a military campaign against the Turks and his head was put on a pole in Istanbul to warn the Sultan’s enemies. Zholkovsky’s widow later ransomed it to bury it in one of the Zhovkva churches. The town boasts a castle (do visit it!), a few churches of brick-and-mortar and a few wooden churches, a closed former synagogue and a lovely town square.

Small, but amazingly beautiful - as if emerged from the depth of the centuries -Pyatnytska Church is called the last creation of the Old Russian architects and is considered to be an embodiment of the Kyivan Rus's architectural development. Situated in the park near town's main square, it is one of the most notable old Chernihiv's cultic buildings. There are almost no data about temple's origin. Some believe that it was built in the late 12th - early 13th centuries, on the so called Pyatnytskoye field (former marketplace) and named after Saint Paraskeva Pyatnytsia - trade's, agriculture's and family's patron saint. As another legend has it, the church was raised upon a decree of the Novhorod-Siversky's Prince Igor Svyatoslavich - the one, whose campaign against Cumans became a plot for prominent Old Russian literary monument 'The Tale of Igor's Campaign.' The old temple's architectural forms were reminiscent of elegant tower, and it had two entrances - one for men and one for women. Building's walls were very thick and powerful, and galleries, leading to loophole-windows used for defense, were built on the second tier. READ MORE ->

The largest and one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Carpathian Mountains. It is also called 'Sea Eye' or 'Pearl of the Carpathians'. Looking at the lake from bird’s eye view, picturesque view opens before your eyes - mirror-like water surface among green forests, with a small island in the middle. The lake attracts tourists with crystal clear waters and unique landscapes. There is beautiful legend that the picturesque blue lake was formed from the tears of the count's daughter Syn, on the place where her father had killed her beloved - a shepherd Vir. Now only two wooden statues of lovers remind about that story. READ MORE ->

A small village located on the steep slopes of Chornohora Ridge in Verkhovyna district of Ivano-Frankivsk region, near the border with Romania. Despite the fact that the population of Dzembronya is only about 250 people, the length of the village is about 10 km. Many mountain tourist routes in the Ukrainian Carpathians (to the Chornohora ridge) start in the village. READ MORE ->

Probably, best place for jeep safari in US: scout bison, elk, bighorn sheep and wild burros. Experience monumental works of man and nature in one place, the Black Hills of South Dakota, home to five national parks and monuments, including Mount Rushmore, the Shrine of Democracy. A region of infinite variety, you’ll also find scenic byways, historic Old West towns, Native American culture, gaming and a wealth of attractions. READ MORE ->

Enjoy this wilderness and witness the life of tigers in this popular tiger reserve. In Bandhavgarh, three are 3 safari zones: Tala Zone, Magadhi Zone and Khitauli Zone. Tala Zone is oldest and most popular.

Stretching across the Brazilian states of Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul (also spilling into Bolivia and Paraguay) the Pantanal is the world's largest inland wetland area. While the Amazon gets more credit, the Pantanal's open spaces offer the best opportunities for spotting animals in their natural habitats in Brazil. Pantanal houses a wide diversity of species, such as the alligator (symbol of the biome), piranha, jaguar, as well as a multitude of fish. The best (may be only) place to see jaguars in the wild. Cruising the Cuiaba River - be ready to meet tapirs, giant otters, anacondas and huge number of exotic birds. READ MORE ->

Wied l-Għasri, the Ghasri Valley, is a marvellous place for a country walks or bike ride, especially in winter and spring. The valley begins at Ta’ Dbieġi Hill before winding down through the village of l-Għasri, and on between iż-Żebbuġ and Ta’ Ġurdan Hill to meet the sea between impressive cliffs. Wied il-L-Għasri is very popular with divers who like to explore the surrounding underwater caves. The very narrow and secluded bay is also a haven for those who seek a quiet bathing area. READ MORE ->

Mdina is a fortified medieval town enclosed in bastions, located on a large hill in the centre of Malta. The town was the old capital of Malta, and with its narrow streets, few inhabitants and beatuful views over the Island it is truly a magical town. Mdina is referred to as the “Silent City” by Maltese and visitors alike - no cars (except those of a limited number of residents) have permission to enter Mdina and the town provides a relaxing atmosphere among the visitors walking its narrow streets and alleyways. READ MORE -> Mdina has had different names and titles depending on its rulers and its role but its medieval name describe it best - ‘Citta' Notabile': the noble city. It was home then, as now, to Malta's noble families; some are descendants of the Norman, Sicilian and Spanish overlords who made Mdina their home from the 12th century onwards. Impressive palaces line its narrow, shady streets. Mdina is one of Europe's finest examples of an ancient walled city and extraordinary in its mix of medieval and baroque architecture. The history of Mdina traces back more than 4000 years. According to tradition it was here that in 60 A.D. that the Apostle St. Paul is said to have lived after being shipwrecked on the Islands. Furthermore it is said that St. Paul resided inside the grotto know as Fuori le Mura (outside the city walls) now known as St. Paul's Grotto in Rabat. Lamp lit by night and referred to as 'the silent city', Mdina is fascinating to visit for its timeless atmosphere as well as its cultural and religious treasures. READ MORE ->

St. Peter’s Pool is one of the most beautiful and stunning natural swimming pools in Malta and is located close to Marsaxlokk at the tip of Delimara Point in the southwest of Malta. The sea at St. Peters Pool is crystal clear with an amazing azure and light green colors and offers excellent snorkelling opportunities. The flat rocks around St Peter’s Pool provide perfect sunbathing areas and the high rocks offer some shade from the strong sun. READ MORE ->

Totally secluded and far away from the main roads, a little known unspoiled anchorage called Il-Hofra L-Kbira is spot for genuine explorers, who would like to spend a day in this natural gem, on south east coast of Malta.

Colorful fishing village - a photographer’s dream The vibrant trading port of Marsaxlokk was established in 900 BC when the Phoenicians first landed on Malta. Fishing boats in shades of blue, yellow and red waves bobbing in the harbor. All have the requisite evil eye on their prow to protect fisherman at sea. The village has a daily open-air market and restaurants edging the harbor. This is where you’ll sit down to the freshest fish on the island. 4 stunning coves around Marsaxlokk. The first two Marsaxlokk beaches are il-Ħofra ż-Żgħira (small cove) and il-Ħofra l-Kbira (large cove) – two coves adjacent to each other. To reach them, you must travel a number of narrow winding roads to the Southwest of the village. Kalanka and St. Peter’s Pool are the other two of these bays, with St. Peter’s Pool (one of the best beaches in Malta) being the most accessible of all four, reachable via the road that leads to the Delimara Power Station. READ MORE ->

The lagoons (lakes) of La Mancha Wetlands with extraordinary flora and fauna, along with unforgettable dawns and dusks await those who decide to visit this unique site. The Ruidera Lakes are naturally formed by a group of 16 small lakes on different levels. Some are interconnected, and turn this otherwise arid area of ochre tones, into a real oasis. Besides the area’s natural beauty, it also offers the chance to practise a variety of leisure and sports activities A chain of fifteen lakesform an open space of lakes and rivers that are unique to la Mancha's steppes. Between the first lagoon, Blanca and that of Cenegal, there is a 120 metres drop, and the remaining lagoons form a chain and are connected via waterfalls, brooks, and underground currents. Las Lagunas de Ruidera are considered to be the source of the river Guadiana. They are supplied by the waters of underground aquifers and the river Pinilla. The main vegetation is made up of reeds, bulrushes, rushes, near the lagoons, and well as junipers and holm oaks. In their waters you can spot barbel, carp, pike, water snakes and tortoises. READ MORE ->

Most 'fairy tale'-like, well-preserved medieval walls in all of Europe. The Walls were completed between the 11th and 14th centuries. The walls are the image that is unmistakably associated with the town of Ávila and they were the main reason, together with the Romanesque churches, why the UNESCO included the town on its list of World Heritage Sites in 1985. This impressive defence construction has a perimeter of 2516 m, 87 turrets and 9 gates and the walls of Ávila are the best-conserved example of their kind in the world. Tourists should not leave the town without going up to the allure of the walls or walking around its perimeter. Visitors can today walk along 1700 m of the allure and there are four entrance points, one of which is suitable for the disabled. READ MORE ->

The whole face of the Huécar Gorge was once lined with hanging houses. Today only three remain, and these were thoroughly restored at the beginning of the 20th century. They are in the traditional Gothic style, and some original elements can still be seen in the part that houses the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art . There is a wealth of wooden details on the interior. The exterior entranceway is in the Renaissance style and was originally part of an old palace in Villarejo de la Peñuela. The house on the left-hand side (the restaurant kitchen) is known as the Casa de la Sirena (house of the mermaid). Stroll across this historic stone footbridge for front-row views of the Hanging Houses. READ MORE ->

A golden dome, marble walls, granite pillars and manicured gardens cascading down a slope of Mount Carmel make the Baha’i Shrine in Haifa a spectacularly colourful attraction for visitors. Terraces gardens leading down to the Shrine of the Bab (Ron Almog) The shrine is the world headquarters of the Baha’i faith, a monotheistic religion committed to the unity of humanity and the fundamental oneness of all religions. The shrine, built in 1953, contains the remains of Siyyid Al Muhammad (1819-50). Known as the Bab, he is revered as the prophet-herald of the Baha’i faith. READ MORE ->

To visualise old Jerusalem at the peak of its power, look down on the outdoor scale model of the ancient city at the Israel Museum. The gold-trimmed Second Temple and its vast courtyard dominate the Model of Ancient Jerusalem. Herod’s Palace, the twin-spired Palace of the Hasmoneans, the streets and markets are all identifiable. The time is AD 66, the fateful year the Great Revolt against the Romans erupted, resulting in the destruction of the city and the Temple built by Herod the Great. All that’s missing from buildings of Jerusalem limestone are the people. READ MORE ->

Mount Tabor, rising dome-like from the Plain of Jezreel, is the mountain where Christian tradition places the Transfiguration of Jesus.

The present Catholic and Greek Orthodox buildings (separated by a wall) were constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The prominent Catholic Church of the Transfiguration, designed by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, stands among the ruins of a Benedictine monastery.

A bas-relief of the architect, who designed many of the Holy Land’s churches, is set into a wall on the right of the entrance.

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Israel’s largest art museum, with a large collection of permanent exhibits as well as temporary exhibits. The Museum opened in 1932, before even the state of Israel was established, and a new wing opened in 2011. The museum shows the works of both Israeli and international artists including impressionism and post-impressionism. Permanently on display include the works of Cezanne, Chagall, Dali, Monet, Henri Moore, Auguste Rodin, Archipenko, Picasso, Klimt, Kadinsky. The new Herta and Paul Amir Building at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, opened in November 2011, and is itself a visual and architectural masterpiece. Designed by Preston Scott Cohen the new building was described by the New York Times as “an elongated Rubik’s Cube doused with bleach” READ MORE ->

Cultural & culinary center at an ancient city & fishing port dating back to the 18th century BC.-Google. The ancient port of the city of Jaffa, out of which modern day Tel Aviv has grown. The Old Jaffa Port is reputed to be one of the oldest ports in the world, notably being the port from which Jonah set off in the famous Biblical story of Jonah and the Whale. Its long and fascinating history as strategic port in the Eastern Mediterranean continued until only recently when new ports were built south of Tel Aviv in Ashdod and north in Haifa, to cater for modern-day shipping methods. Today the port is used largely by local fishermen who continue the centuries-old tradition of the area. READ MORE ->

Christian complex built atop the ruins of a Byzantine church.

The place where Christians believe the Virgin Mary died.

The monastic church- “the Dormition” is one of the most prominent churches in Jerusalem due to its size, beauty, and location that overlooks the old city. The church was built on a plot that the German emperor Wilhelm the 2nd received from the Ottoman sultan during his visit to the Holy Land in 1898, and it was inaugurated in 1910. The emperor decided to establish here a large church that would demonstrate the strength of Germany, and the building does give a feeling of a fortress.

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The hill of Mount Zion, the highest point in ancient Jerusalem, is dominated by the Church of the Dormition. The location is identified in Christian tradition as the place where the Virgin Mary died — or 'fell asleep', as the name suggests. The fortress-like building, with a conical roof and four corner towers, stands south of the Old City’s Zion Gate.

Nearby soars the bell tower of the Hagia Maria Sion Abbey (formerly the Abbey of the Dormition), a Benedictine monastery. During the Byzantine period, the Church of Hagia Sion (Holy Zion), one of the three earliest churches in Jerusalem, stood on this site. Built by Emperor Constantine, it was regarded as the Mother of all Churches. In AD 614 it was destroyed by the Persians. Two cities, Jerusalem and Ephesus (in present-day Turkey), claim to be the place where the Virgin Mary died. The Ephesus claim rests in part on the Gospel account that Christ on his cross entrusted the care of Mary to St John (who later went to Ephesus). But the earliest traditions all locate the end of Mary’s life in Jerusalem, where the Tomb of Mary is venerated at the foot of the Mount of Olives. Accounts of Mary’s death in Jerusalem appear in early sources such as De Orbitu S. Dominae, Transitus Mariae, and Liber Requiei Mariae. These books are described as apocryphal (meaning 'hidden' or 'secret'). Their authenticity is uncertain and they are not accepted as part of the Christian canon of Scripture.

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Considered to be one of Tel Aviv’s prettiest districts, Neve Tzedek lies south east of the Yemenite quarter and the famous Carmel Market and attracts legions of walking visitors thanks to its amazing architecture, cultural legacy and village-like atmosphere. By the late 1800’s Jaffa (today lying at the southern end of Tel Aviv) was becoming very overcrowded. In 1887 a group of Jewish families went outside the city walls to build new homes, developments to support the community soon followed and Neve Tzedek was born. From its humble beginnings as Tel Aviv’s very first neighbourhood, its ever-charming real estate has soared in recent years, making it one of the White City’s most eclectic and indulgent shopping destinations, and a hub for French expats. READ MORE ->

Yardenit ('little Jordan') is a popular Baptism site. Here, the water flows into the Jordan river, eventually flowing into the Dead Sea located more than 100 km to the south. This site is believed by some traditions to be the actual site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist (Matthew 3: 13: 'Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John').

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Christian tradition places the birth of John the Baptist — who announced the coming of Jesus Christ, his cousin — in the picturesque village of Ein Karem 7.5km south-west of Jerusalem. Jerusalem tours are rounded out with a visit to Ein Karem (also pronounced/spelled Ein Kerem). Millions trek out yearly to this remote, garden-rich southwestern Jerusalem village, be it for ancient religious history, quaint, upscale neighborhood environs, music and art, or trendy restaurants and bars. Ein Karem, therefore, is the place to be in Jerusalem for something different. Ein Karem has both Jewish and Christian history. Referenced as “BeitaKerem” in the books of Jeremiah and Nehemiah, the area was within the jurisdiction of the Tribe of Judah, from whom the classification of “Jew” originated. For Christians, Ein Karem is best known as the birthplace of John the Baptist, and in fact is considered one of the top Jerusalem tour destinations for Christian pilgrims. The village is home to five churches and monasteries: The Church of St. John the Baptist (not to be confused with a church in the Old City by the same name), Visitation Church, the Notre Dame de Sion convent, the Greek Orthodox St. John convent, and the Al Moskovia Russian monastery (originally called the Gorny Monastery). Additionally, a focal point is the famous Mary’s Well, where it’s believed that Mary, miraculously pregnant with Jesus, sat and drank from its spring waters while sitting with Elizabeth, who was miraculously pregnant with John at the same time. READ MORE ->

The towering cupola of the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth stands over the cave that tradition holds to be the home of the Virgin Mary. Here, it is believed, the archangel Gabriel told the young Mary, aged about 14, that she would become the mother of the Son of God. And here Mary uttered her consent: “Let it be done to me according to your word.” The massive two-story basilica, in strikingly modern architectural style and colorfully decorated, became the largest Christian church in the Middle East when it was completed in 1969. It contains two churches, the upper one being the parish church for Nazareth’s Catholic community. The lower level of the Church of the Annunciation enshrines a sunken grotto that contains the traditional cave-home of the Virgin Mary. The cave is flanked by remnants of earlier churches on the site. READ MORE ->

One of the most unique sights in Israel and its unusual scenery. A steep cablecar along a white chalk cliff leads to these cavernous grottos with turquoise water. -Google. A vast network of grottoes and caves along the Mediterranean coastline in the Western Galilee region. These grottoes and caves were formed as a result of the interaction between the waves and the rocky cliffs that make up the coastline. Scientists actually believe that a series of earthquakes ripped gaps into the cliffs of the Western Galilee and as relentless rain and forceful waves eroded the cliffs and widened the gaps, grottoes, and caves began to form. Naturally, this was an incredibly lengthy process. As a result, the grotto network known as Rosh Hanikra is a geological formation that took thousands and thousands of years to form. READ MORE ->

Theme park featuring attractions such as sea lion shows, swimming with dolphins & a reptile house. - Google. READ MORE ->

The Art Nouveau and Art Déco Museum is essentially a museum for decorative arts that sets a sweeping tour through time from the last decades of the 19th century until World War II. This period of time of no more than sixty years is certainly one of the most prolific of the applied arts. The bulk of the pieces that can be seen at the Museum are utilitarian objects which respond to meticulous aesthetic criteria. This is the duality that, on the one hand, makes them really interesting as a testimony of the way of life at that time and that, on the other hand, made some of them disappear due to their daily use. READ MORE ->

Salamanca's Plaza Mayor was constructed between 1729 and 1755. Not only is it one of the city's most beautiful locales, but it is also considered among the most beautiful plazas in all of Spain. Its Baroque style architecture of the 18th century, includes Spanish decorations of cut tablets, equilateral arches and four levels. Much of the daily and night life of Salamanca takes place in the Plaza Mayor. READ MORE ->

A 16th-century cathedral carved with contemporary symbols. Among a rich collection of Renaissance, Roman, Gothic, and Baroque monuments of Salamanca there are two impressive cathedrals, the Old Cathedral and the New Cathedral. After in the beginning of the 15th century, it was decided that Salamanca needed a bigger and more splendorous cathedral. The result was The New Cathedral, constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries in the Gothic and Baroque styles, commissioned by Ferdinand V of Castile of Spain, the Catholic King. It is one of the ultimate manifestations of Gothic architecture and one of the last examples constructed in Spain. READ MORE ->

The Valletta Waterfront is the first site that welcomes cruise ships coming to Malta, but also it is a wonderful place for a walk, where tourists can enjoy shopping, eating at nice restaurants and observing the beauty of the Grand Harbor. READ MORE ->

Known in Maltese as Ramla il-Hamra ('Red Sands'), this is the biggest sandy beach on Gozo – a curving bay of fiery-coloured sands flanked by twin rocky headlands and backed by dunes thick with tamarisk and bamboo. Swim and soak up the rays alongside a statue of the Virgin Mary, placed on the beach atop a chunky white plinth in 1881 in commemoration of a local shipwreck. The cliffs above the western corner of the beach shelter Calypso’s Cave, one of many Maltese nooks identified as the spot where Odysseus spent seven years holed up with the temptress Calypso. If you make the climb, the only thing to admire is the view. READ MORE ->

Most famous and also the most popular alpine valley. At the upper end it 'crashes' into the wide Triglav north wall, and a few-minute walk from the parking lot will be rewarded with a splendid view of the wall. You will feel its power even if you don't have the intention to hike further towards Triglav, and have a look at the magnificent symbol of Slovenia from up close without special effort. On the way to Vrata a stop-over at Peričnik waterfall is a must. Actually there are two of them, and we can even walk underneath the lower one! A great way to cool down in summer and a spectacular experience during winter when the waterfall freezes. READ MORE ->

Cristal clear Mostnica stream has carved a 2-kilometer gorge just above the village of Stara Fužina, which is easily accessible right from the shore of Bohinj Lake. In some places the stream bed is extremely narrow and the gorges are up to 20 meters high. In the upper part of Mostnica the valley widens. This is the idyllic valley of Voje with splendid meadows and (mostly) holiday houses. At the end of the valley there is a nice local café and a pretty Voje waterfall. Canyoning is also possible in the gorges of Mostnica. READ MORE ->

13th-century castle built in cliff face cave, with restored living areas, dungeons & secret tunnel. - Google. Predjama Castle is one of the most famous in Slovenia, attracting each year thousands of tourists. Located in small village of Predjama, this amazing Renaissance fortress, built within a cave, is not at all the kind of castle we’re familiar with. This ancient castle doesn’t have crenellated towers, sumptuous interior decorations or refined details, but it is a special place in so many ways. Predjama castle is definitely not incidentally among the most visited places in Slovenia. The first thing that attracts attention is the castle’s location. At some point one could surely believe that the castle is almost one with the mountain in which it lies. And the contrast between the blackened cliffs and the white walls of the castle offers the sensation that it’s almost unreal. READ MORE ->

A fantastic web of tunnels, passages, galleries and halls, the astonishing diversity of Karst features. READ MORE ->

Lake Bohinj with its surroundings is one of the top natural pearls of Slovenia. It lies within Triglav National Park enclosed by the beautiful Julian Alps. Crystal clear water offers bathing between June and September, but the area around the lake draws fans of various sport activities and pristine nature environment throughout the year. Hikers, mountaineers, climbers, cyclists, paragliders, fishermen, horse-back riders, fans of water sports, cavers, skiers and cross-country skiers ...... READ MORE ->

Historic church located in a calm, picturesque setting on an island accessible by boat. - Google.

According to a legend which stayed with the people, the temple of the ancient Slavic goddess Živa, once stood in the place of the present Baroque church. The temple disappeared during battles between the followers of the pagan religion and Christians, who destroyed the altar and built a church.

On the Bled island, archaeologists have discovered traces of prehistoric (11th to 8th centuries B.C.) and Slavic (9th to 10th century) settlements. In the early Middle Ages a pre-Christian, probably Old Slavic cult area stood at the location of the present day church. 124 graves with skeletons from the 9th to the 11th century were found.

The foundations of a pre-Romanesque chapel which was built during the process of Christianisation, also date from approximately the same period - this is probably the only discovered example of a cult building from those times on Slovenian territory. According to written sources, the first masonry church on the island, a three-nave Romanesque basilica, was consecrated by the Aquilean patriarch Pellegrino in 1142.

The present form of the church dates from the 17th century, when it was renovated after another earthquake. The main altar, with its rich gold-plated carving, dates from 1747. On the central altarpiece the Virgin Mary is shown seated, with the donor of the Bled estate, Henry II, and his wife Kunigunda at her side. The side altars, consecrated to St. Sebastian, St. Magdalena and St. Anna, were made at the end of the 17th century.

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Climb to the peak and ring the bell. Legend has it that ringing the bell brings luck.