Masada
★ 4.8🇮🇱 MasadaSuggested visit 2-3 hoursBest season October to April, with more comfortable temperatures
World HeritageHistoric siteArchaeological site
A clifftop fortress above the Dead Sea, combining Herod's palace with the last stand of the great revolt.
Overview
On an isolated plateau above the Dead Sea, Masada was a palace fortress built by Herod in the 1st century BC, with sheer cliffs on every side. In AD 73 Jewish rebels made their last stand here. The site preserves palaces, a synagogue, cisterns and the Roman siege works, and joined the World Heritage List in 2001. A cable car or the Snake Path climbs to the top, best at sunrise.
History
Built as a palace fortress by Herod in the 1st century BC, held by Jewish rebels from AD 66 to 73, excavated from the 20th century and inscribed in 2001.
Highlights
- •The northern palace ruins
- •Climbing the Snake Path
- •The Roman siege works
- •Views over the Dead Sea and desert
Practical tips
- •Midday is extremely hot — climb early or take the cable car
- •The path is steep and shadeless; bring water and a hat
Practical information
- Best time
- October-April
- Tickets
- About ILS 76 including the cable car
- Opening hours
- 8:00-16:00 (shorter in winter)
- Local food
- Hummus, shakshuka, dates
- Getting around
- About 1.5 hours by car from Jerusalem.
- Visa
- A visa is required; apply about a month in advance.
Traveller reviews
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