Zippori

Zippori is an ancient town in the Galilee also known as Sephoris. It is located just northwest of Nazereth. Two thousand years ago, Zippori was the capital city of the Galilee. There were plenty of building projects taking place during the time of the Lord Jesus. Before He started His ministry, it is possible that the Lord Jesus may have worked there as a carpenter or stone mason. Zippori was destroyed by an earthquake and many mosaic floors are still in tact.

This mosaic is known as "Mona Lisa of the Galilee" because nobody knows who she is. Israel's Ministry of Tourism frequently shows this mosaic in their brochures.

Mona Lisa of the Galilee is actually just a small portion of a larger room-sized mosaic.

The mosaic was located inside a building and is still there today to help preserve it.

Olive trees and picnic benches at the entrance to the National Park at Zippori.

Across the valley at the National Park entrance.

A fig tree without any leaves. Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near; so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door. Matthew 24:32-33.

The Galilee does have some "prickly pear" cacti.

Looking across the valley.

Zippori on the hilltop was the main part of the city.

Several rock streets are still intact from two thousand years ago.

Mosaic floors in many buildings and even some on the sidewalks.

From the Greek era before the Romans. A centaur, half-man and half-horse. Definitely strange.

Steps to the top of the hill will a large garden of cacti.

From the top of the old watchtower or guard tower, you could easily see Nazereth on the hill just to the southeast. "This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth in Galilee." Matthew 21:11