On our first Friday in Israel, we drove up into the mountains of the Galilee to visit the Holy City of Tzfat. Although not one of the most well known cities in Israel, this 4000 year old city is one of the 4 Holy Cities and is the center of kabbalah and Jewish mysticism.
Tzfat is also known for its synagogues.
After getting off the bus, the first vendor we saw was selling fresh squeezed fruit and vegetable juice for just a few shekels, which was refreshing on this warm and sunny morning.
The streets of Tzfat are narrow and old. We wound our way through past the beautiful shops and vendors.
Our first stop was the Ashkenazi HaAri Synagogue.
Interestingly this synagogue was established by Sephardic immigrants during the 16th century. There is a rich history here along with a vibrant young population.
The inside of the synagogue was beautifully decorated and well kept.
After the synagogue, we met with a local artist interested in Kabbalah. We then wondered through the city admiring it’s beauty and observing the locals preparing for Shabbat.
One of my favorite views of the entire city was through this barred window in the bathroom.
I used this view to play with my new camera’s effects taking this picture below…one of my favorites from the entire trip.
I have titled it A View from the Lou…ha ha!
As the city prepared for Shabbat, we returned to the Kibbutz for a festive celebration and a quiet Saturday catching up on sleep and relaxation after an active start to our trip.
I feel like we only got see a small section of this historical city, and I would love to visit again. There is much more to see and shops to explore!
Luv What You Do 
Wow. these pics are amazing! I love seeing all of this–what a fascinating trip!
Thanks Michelle! There were so many incredible things to see that it was easy to capture them on film!
Were some of the buildings the originals? Is the architecture inside the synagogue similar to what is seen at others or is it unique to the area-I must admit that I have never been in a synagogue-I’ve been in a mosque, a hindu temple, a buddist temple, and all forms of christian churches-but never a synagogue.
It all looks so old and beautiful!
Yes a lot of the architecture is original! There are aspects of this synagogue that are similar but it is a different style than what you would find in the states today. There is actually a bullet hole from a war hundred’s of years ago during war time. The entire city is so neat, especially because it is seated up in the mountains!
Just discovered your blog and as a fellow traveler, I love your pictures! Beautiful, and such a good overview of what it must feel like to actually be there!
Thank you! I really appreciate the comment! I was worried taking a new camera on my trip, but it worked out wonderfully!
I love seeing the city and sites through your eyes and words- beautiful. That is a great view from the loo!
Thank you so much! I’m thinking I might need to print that one! And maybe hang it in my Loo : )
That would be perfect!
[…] The Holy City of Tzfat […]
Beautiful architecture! Love all the stone and bright blue!
I know…it’s so unique! I can’t wait to print some pictures to hang in our house.
That city looks gorgeous. View from the Loo is a great pic! I can see why it’s your favorite.
he he! Thanks! I can’t wait to hang a copy in my Loo!