Path of the Patriarchs

Tour C:  Walking in the path of the patriarchs, including a visit to the tomb of  Rachel (Kever Rachel), Herodian, King Herod's fortified Palace and eventual burial site, Derech Avot, mikvo'ot,  and Hevron, where we'll visit Maarat HaMachpela, tomb of the patriarchs.

Our day begins with our traveling to Kever Rachel, traditional burial site of our matriarch Rachel, located on the outskirts of Beit Lechem.  During this visit we’ll consider why Jews visit kevarim and why they go out of their way to visit Rachel emanu’s kever.  Next, we’ll head over to Herodian, King Herod’s SummerPalace.  Part of the fun is exploring the hidden tunnels!!  Afterwards, we’ll travel to the western side of Gush Etzion, backyard area where King David grew up.  We’ll walk along the Path of the Patriarch’s (Derech Avot) the same route used by the Avot (Avraham, Yitzchak and Ya’akov) and by travelers more than 2000 years ago!  You’ll discover ancient mikvot and grape presses.  During our visit, we’ll also discuss the various mitzvoth specific to Eretz Yisrael (shmita, orlah, trumot and massrot ).  Oh, of course we'll review who lived out here and when (like David HaMelech, before becoming the king). Our journey will take us to the Pina Chama – “The Warm corner,” where we’ll drop off some snacks for soldiers – this is a kiosk that offers free drinks and cakes to soldiers, as well as some TLC.   Now we’ll head to Hevron, visiting Ma’arat HaMachpela, the tomb of Avraham Aveinu and Sarah, and the other Patriarchs and Matriarchs.