This past August we had the pleasure of visiting the ancient city of Yodfat, located in the south west Galil, in Northern Israel. It is true, most of the family actually stayed in the car, but one of my sons did venture out into the hot afternoon sun with me to briefly check out this very important historic site. I do hope to return another time to explore the many trails, as it is certainly a lovely spot worth exploring.
Yodfat is famous for the siege of Yodfat, a 47-day siege by Roman forces of the Jewish town of Yodfat which took place in 67 CE, during the Great Revolt. Led by Roman General Vespasian and his son Titus, both future emperors, the siege ended with the sacking of the town, the deaths of most of its inhabitants and the enslavement of the rest. It was the second bloodiest battle of the revolt, surpassed only by the Siege of Jerusalem, and the longest except for Jerusalem and Masada. The siege was chronicled by Josephus, who had personally commanded the Jewish forces at Yodfat and was subsequently captured by the Romans.
We took the short walk out on a paved path, to see some of the excavated site, and this is what we saw, care to join me?
Above: The sign telling about the history of the site.
Above: Shall we go up the hill? I wish we had, hopefully next time!
Above: We opted to take the paved path on the side of the hill.
Above: And we saw some gorgeous pastoral views indeed.....
Above: Looking towards the current day Yodfat
Above: The excavated portion of the Northeastern wall
Above: The sign showing the excavated portion of the Northeastern Wall.
Above: Another chance to enjoy the view as we head back to the car.
Above: Goodbye Yodfat, it was great to meet you!
