Discover Nazareth: A Guide to the City's Religious Landmarks

Nazareth, the largest Arab town in Israel, is a hub of Christian and Muslim Arab communities and a key destination for Christian pilgrims. Known as the site of the Annunciation and Jesus' upbringing, it boasts numerous historical churches and a vibrant market district.

1. Church of the Annunciation

The modern Church of the Annunciation, built in 1969, stands on a site with a history of religious structures dating back to the 3rd century AD. Designed by Giovanni Muzio, it incorporates elements from previous churches, including the Crusader-era basilica.

2. Mary of Nazareth International Center

Opposite the Church of the Annunciation, this center offers multimedia presentations on Mary's life and the early Christian church. It also features a 1st-century house excavation and a garden with a restaurant.

Official site: http://il.chemin-neuf.org/en/

What to see and do in Nazareth

3. St. Joseph's Church

Adjacent to the Church of the Annunciation, St. Joseph's Church is believed to be built over Joseph's carpentry workshop. The church features modern frescoes and stained-glass windows, with an underground level revealing 1st-century artifacts.

4. Salesian Church of Jesus the Adolescent

Perched on Mount of the Start, this neo-Gothic church offers panoramic views and is associated with Jesus' youth. It now serves as a vocational school and hosts classical music performances.

5. Synagogue Church

In the market district, the Synagogue Church is a Greek Catholic Melkite site where Jesus is believed to have worshipped. The current church, built in 1887, features a grand dome and bell towers.

6. St. Gabriel's Church and Mary's Well

St. Gabriel's Church, built over a spring, is another claimed Annunciation site. The church's crypt houses the spring, and the upper church is adorned with impressive frescoes.

7. Ancient Bath House Tour

Discovered beneath a souvenir shop, this Roman-era bathhouse offers tours of its caldarium and heating tunnels. While there's no direct link to Jesus, it's a fascinating glimpse into the period's architecture.

Official site: www.nazarethbathhouse.org

8. Mensa Christi Church

The Franciscan Mensa Christi Church houses a stone slab associated with the risen Christ. The church, dating to 1861, is typically locked but accessible upon request.

9. Day Trip to Cana (Kafr Kanna)

Cana, near Nazareth, is famed for the miracle of turning water into wine. The town has several churches commemorating the event, with the Franciscan church being the most notable.

10. Explore History at Zippori

Zippori, a short drive from Nazareth, offers ruins from various periods, including a Roman theater and Crusader castle. The site provides insights into the region's layered history.

History of Nazareth

Archaeological digs reveal Nazareth's occupation since the 2nd millennium BC. The town has seen numerous conquests and destructions, with significant Christian and Jewish populations. It became part of Israel in 1948, with the Jewish settlement of Nazareth Illit established nearby.