Beth Shean Valley

The Beth Shean Valley is a region in the Jordan Valley of northern Israel.

Regions

Cities

• Beth Shean

Other Destinations

National Parks

• Beit Alfa Synagogue National Park [1], located on Kibbutz Hefzibah, some 20 mins to the west of Beth Shean on Route 669 (watch for the signs), open April-September 8am-5pm, October-March 8am-4pm, tel (06) 653-2004, admission adults NIS 18, children NIS 8, groups: adults NIS 15, children NIS 7 - the site of an excavated 5th century synagogue with a remarkable mosaic floor, Beit Alfa was the scene of the first native Israeli archaeological excavation, conducted even before Independence. An Aramaic inscription states that the mosaic was laid at the time of the emperor Justin (ruled 518-527); the Greek inscription is in memory of the artists who made the mosaic, Marianus and his son Hanina. The highlight of the site is the mosaic floor in the central room of the synagogue, easily one of the most important mosaics discovered in Israel. Each of its three panels depicts a scene - the Holy Ark, the Zodiac (with the names of the 12 signs in Hebrew and a central image of the sun-god Helios - a most unusual addition to a synagogue!), and the story of the attempted sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham. The four women in the corners of the mosaic represent the four seasons. A film about life in the ancient village and the making of the mosaic floor is available to view in Hebrew, English and German.

Kibbutzim

• Kibbutz Nir David

Culture and History

Most of the Beth Shean Valley is situated below Sea Level. Extremely hot and humid in summer.

Considered by many to be an extension of the neighbouring Jezreel Valley region, the Beth Shean Valley really does possess its own unique geography and character.

Talk

Travel to Beth_Shean_Valley, visa requirements

Get around

Beth_Shean_Valley attractions and sightseeing

Itineraries

City tours

Good restaurants and cheap meals

Beth_Shean_Valley nightlife, bars, clubs and pubs.

Stay safe

Get out

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