Thinking Tzfat This Summer?

[I'm traveling on business south of the equator and genuinely missing the warm weather back in Israel. For those in a summer mindset and looking for a great destination, here's a little write-up offered by a friend while I'm away]

The expanding tourism infrastructure in Tzfat is drawing tourists in increasing numbers, both native Israelis and foreign visitors. The peak of the tourist season occurs during the summer months when the historical sites and galleries stay open late to accommodate the thousands of people who stream through the Old Jewish Quarter and Artists Colony daily.

Visits to Safed often begin at the Tzfat Tourist Information Center where there are maps and guidebooks as well as suggestions and explanations about how to make the most of a Safed visit. The Visitors Center also offers a ten-minute movie about the History of Safed as well as an opportunity to descend into 500-year-old tunnels which have been excavated by the Livnot U'Lehibanot Israel Experience Program.

Summer visitors will find four old synagogues open daily including the Ari Ashkanazi, the Yosef Caro, the Abuhav and the Ari Sepharadi. In addition the legendary "cave" where Rabbi Yosef Caro is believed to have sat with the "Maggid" -- angel -- to write the Shulhan Aruch Code of Jewish Law is accessible to visitors who can walk down the stairs to the left of the synagogue in the morning and evening hours.

There are a number of additional activities that visitors can enjoy in the area. Dozens of art galleries are open throughout the Old City which exhibit a wide range of Judaica as well as contemporary and traditional artwork, crafts such as pottery and glass fusion and unique examples of weaving and wax sculptures.

Tzfat is known as the City of Kabbalah. Visitors can learn more about Kabbalah by viewing the 15-minute movie at the International Center of Tzfat Kabbalah or joining a class at the Ascent Institute. Many local artists combine their study of Kabbalah with their art and they invite visitors into their galleries to explain how Kabbalistic concepts influence their work.

Posted with Blogsy