Blog: coraltours.org Historic Stories Behind Israel’s Most Iconic Christian Landmarks Walk where Jesus walked. Stand where miracles happened. Feel the Bible come alive. Israel is the land where Scripture took shape, the stage where faith, history, and divine purpose meet. The miracles, messages, and moments that built Christianity began right here. Believers come not only to explore but also to reconnect with the places where their faith was born. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Gospels by reading and living them, t his is where it begins. Let’s explore the Christian landmarks that continue to inspire hearts worldwide. Jerusalem: Where the Story Unfolds Church of the Holy Sepulchre The Church of the Holy Sepulchre holds both Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified, and the tomb where He rose again. For many Christians, this sacred site is the heart of their faith, drawing pilgrims from around the world to witness the place where the story of resurrection began. Many Catholics believe the traditional site of the Holy Sepulcher church is where Jesus' tomb is. However, an alternative location, believed by many Protestants to be the actual site, is the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem. Via Dolorosa The Via Dolorosa winds through Jerusalem’s Old City, tracing Jesus’ path from His trial to the crucifixion. The route includes 14 stations, each marking a moment of His suffering, from His condemnation to His body being placed in the tomb. Garden of Gethsemane At the foot of the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane marks where Jesus prayed before His arrest. Its ancient olive trees still stand, offering stillness amid the city’s movement. According to the Gospels, this is where He wrestled with what was coming and found the strength to move forward. Mount of Olives Overlooking Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives is traditionally known as the place of Jesus’ ascension. From Blog: coraltours.org here, a panoramic view spans biblical history, including sites central to the Old and New Testaments. It’s a key location for understanding the landscape where Jesus taught, prayed, and returned to Heaven. Cenacle (Upper Room) Located on Mount Zion, the Cenacle is traditionally held as the site of the Last Supper. It’s a simple room with lasting meaning, where Jesus gathered His disciples, shared a final meal, and prepared them for what was to come. Bethlehem: Where the Story Began Church of the Nativity Tucked into the heart of Bethlehem, this ancient church was built right above the cave where Jesus was born. The ceilings are high, the stonework is old, yet the focus is quiet and straightforward: a silver star on the floor that marks the birthplace. Visitors bend down to touch it, not because it’s rare, but because it connects them to the moment the Savior entered the world. This is the beginning of everything. Nazareth: Where Jesus Was Raised Nazareth is a town in the hills of Galilee known as Jesus's hometown. Visitors can see the site at the Basilica of the Annunciation, where, according to the Gospel of Luke, the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and announced she would give birth to the Son of God. The church stands above ancient ruins, linking Biblical history with the faith still practiced there today. Just steps away, a re-created first- century village allows you to experience everyday life in Jesus’ time. It’s a quiet, immersive experience that offers a meaningful glimpse into His early life, before the ministry began. The Jordan River: A Spiritual Reset The Jordan River is where John baptized Jesus, marking the beginning of His public ministry. Today, visitors from around the world come to this quiet stretch of water, some in white robes, others simply kneeling, to mark a personal moment of renewal. Whether it’s a spiritual reset, an act of faith, or a symbolic gesture, the experience becomes a memory that deepens your faith and stays in your heart. The Sea of Galilee: Ground Zero for Miracles Surrounded by hills and small villages, the Sea of Galilee looks peaceful, calm, and ordinary. But this is where Jesus walked on water, calmed a raging storm, and fed thousands with just a few loaves and fish. Visitors can step onto a wooden boat and cross the same waters where the disciples once rowed. The breeze is gentle, and the stillness carries a deep sense of peace. Mount of Beatitudes: Where Teachings Took Root High above the shoreline sits the Mount of Beatitudes. The hillside is grassy, and the Sea of Galilee stretches below. This is where Jesus shared the Sermon on the Mount, words that still shape hearts today. “Blessed are the...” began here, and the spot s till feels blessed. The air is quiet, the hill still, and the view unforgettable. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, listen, and let Jesus's words sink in. Other Powerful Stops on the Journey Blog: coraltours.org Cana – Cana is a small town where Jesus performed His first miracle: turning water into wine during a wedding. Visitors come here to see the church that marks the miracle and reflect on how faith brings beauty into everyday life. Magdala – On the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, it’s Mary Magdalene’s hometown, but it’s also where one of the best-preserved first-century synagogues was found. Many believe Jesus taught here, making it one of the most powerful archaeological links to His ministry. Walk the Bible with Coral Tours Planning a trip like this on your own can feel overwhelming, so many details, so much to see, and not enough time to do it right. That’s why Coral Tours handles every step for you. At Coral Tours, we handle every step for you. We specialize in custom Israel tours, Israel group tours Christian travelers love, and guided Christian pilgrimage experiences designed to bring Scripture to life. Every itinerary we build is crafted with care, faith, and a deep understanding of what this journey means to you. ● Walk the Via Dolorosa ● Be baptized in the Jordan ● Sit where Jesus taught ● Experience every moment with guides who share your faith Your spiritual journey deserves more than a checklist; it deserves meaning, guidance, and peace of mind. We’re here to make that possible. Let us lead the way as you begin your Christian trip to Israel with the team behind the best Christian tours, where faith becomes an experience you’ll carry forever. We’re ready when you are. Start your journey today, without the stress or the guesswork, and with a team that treats your faith like it matters.