Masada

Masada (Hebrew for fortress), is situated atop an isolated rock cliff at the western end of the Judean Desert, overlooking the Dead Sea. It is a place of gaunt and majestic beauty.

On the east the rock falls in a sheer drop of about 450 meters to the Dead Sea (the lowest point on earth, some 400 m. below sea level) and in the west it stands about 100 meters above the surrounding terrain. The natural approaches to the cliff top are very difficult.

Getting ready for the hike up

Thinking about the hike up

On the trail -- double click to magnify

Susan took photo. David, our bus driver in front and fellow travelers Stephanie and Kacy in back.

Views from the walk

Built after the Romans

We stopped at a school in an Arab village.

Talk and lunch

Israeli Air Force Museum

In the Judahen desert with guide Gabby

Roman ruin near desert lunch stop

The Dead Sea from our hotel

Yes, you reall CANNOT sink