Masada

Some months back before my trip to the Holy Land, I read an article in National Geographic about Masada, Herod's fortress in the desert. Actually, the fortress had been built by Hasmonean King Alexander Jannaeus, but Herod rebuilt it (and made it even more luxurious) as a retreat against any who would try to kill him. The fortress was more like a magnificent palace, containing bathhouses which used an elaborate system for bringing water to the site, around 16 storerooms where he stored food supplies and munitions, and lavish sleeping chambers.

Masada is best known for what happened there around 72AD. A group of Jewish extremists in the first Jewish war with Rome, sought refuge at Masada which came under Roman siege. Of the 960 at Masada all but seven committed suicide rather than surrender to the Romans.

Masada (pronounced Metsada) is located in eastern Israel and is 1,300 feet above the Dead Sea. From its summit, the view is spectacular. Standing there, looking down at the sea below and the desert beyond, I could hardly believe I was there!!!