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Nazareth

Nazareth - al-Naassra in Arabic or Natzrat in Hebrew

40km southeast from Haifa, 30km southwest from Tiberias lays the liveliest Arab city, filled with neo-Gothic churches and a great market too.

This city is most famous for the fact that Jesus Christ was born and raised here, and where Mary and Joseph's house was apparently placed.

These days the city's population is made up of mainly Muslims, Christians and a small Jewish community.

The arabs in Nazareth (unlike at many other arab cities) are Israeli citizens.

The city is very different from the liberal Tel Aviv or Haifa, it is recommended to wear long sleeves and pants (or skirt) if you don't want to be hassled or looked at too much, especially when entering the Churches. It is also recommended that women don't walk the streets of Nazareth alone at night.

The main language you will hear is Arabic, but most people speak or at least understand Hebrew or English.

You can head up towards Salesian st and Mary's wall for the best view of the town.

Please keep in mind that this is not a regular city in Israel's as here, all shops are closed on Sunday and a few essential shops open on Saturday.

Tourist Office: Government Tourist Information Office (GTIO):

04-6573003 open Mon-Friday 8:30am-5pm, Sa 8:30am-2pm.