Overview
Masada rises dramatically from the Judean Desert on an isolated plateau above the Dead Sea.
Biblical significance
Masada is not mentioned in the Bible. Its significance lies in understanding the Herodian world into which Jesus was born and the turbulent Jewish-Roman history of the first century.
Historical background
Herod the Great fortified the mountain and built palaces, storerooms and sophisticated water systems there. During the Jewish revolt against Rome, rebels later occupied Masada until Roman forces captured the fortress in the first century AD.
What you will see
Herod's palace remains, storerooms, bathhouses, fortifications, ancient water systems and spectacular views across the Dead Sea and Judean Desert.