Mt. of Beatitudes - Water and Wine Tours

Mt. of Beatitudes

The Beatitudes (blessings) were taught by Jesus and, according to St. Augustine, are the basis of Western civilization.

Here the inspiring Italian architect, Antonio Barluzzi, designed a simple yet meaningful church, set amidst one of the most beautiful sites in the country. The views here take in the entire Sea of Galilee, and the hills of the lower Galilee and Golan Heights which surround the lake. Closer at hand we view orchards. As we walk about the grounds we spy shaded areas suitable for contemplation or groups celebrating the mass. Call the church in advance to make a reservation at one of the sites for your group.

The site of the church is itself ahistorical, simply the place, near the lake, where the Franciscans were able to purchase land to celebrate the Sermon on the Mount. Nevertheless it is in close proximity to a site, just down the hill, celebrated by the early Byzantine Christians as the place where Jesus did deliver the sermon. However we now understand that Jesus would have delivered the same ideas presented in the famous sermon many times during his ministry in Galilee. Perhaps on the particular occasion of the delivery on a high spot above the lake the ideas were best received and remembered associated with that place.

How to put together your Water and Wine tour of Israel

On our Water and Wine Tours website you will not find standard tours.

Don’t worry. We’ll make sure that you experience the must-see sites in the country. But we’ve also included a comprehensive list of sites, by region for people with many different interests, with enough description for you to ascertain whether it’s the sort of place you want to spend your time.

You know your budget and how much time you have to spend here.

So here are our recommendations, based on years of leading all sorts of tours throughout the country.

Ask yourself if this trip is a vacation. Do you want to see sites but also feel really relaxed at the end of each day? So that you don’t need a few days of sleep upon your return home? If this is the case then try to restrict yourself to three major sites per day. Between the sites, travel and lunch 8-10 hours will pass quickly.
If you’re more inclined to describe yourself as a pilgrim or someone who wants a survey of sites, then expect to visit up to five sites per day. You’ll be spiritually satisfied but you’ll also need to get a good night’s sleep every night.

Your Tour Guide

Water & Wine Tours specializes in individually tailored tours catering to the interests of its clients. Our founder, Zach Levin, is an experienced, licensed tour guide who majored in Middle Eastern Languages and Cultures at Columbia University in the City of New York.

Our tour guides make the history and culture of Israel come alive. They understand that the customer is always right and want you to experience an unforgettable Israel. We’ll take you to places which you’ll love and never forget. When you need to be left alone we’ll sense it. When you need an extra hand we’re there for you.