Authentic Druze Meal Followed by Walking Tour of Seven Locations in the Old Village of Isfiya
#1 - Authentic Druze Meal & Al-Aqed Tour
Start the morning at Al-Aqed, and learn all about this museum’s political history in the formation of the Druze-Jewish alliance that is just as strong today, and learn all about the Druze and some of the surprises of this impressive house. See for yourself the Druze people’s love of hospitality as you savor an authentic, kosher Druze meal made on-site.
#2 - The Old Bakery
Visit the very first bakery on Mt. Carmel, one that served the entire town of Isfiya beginning over 350 years ago. The Old Bakery consisted of just an oven for communal use, but the bakery doubled as a social junction for the women in town to meet and share news with one another.
#3 - The Old Arch & House of Sheik Labib (“Haret Al-Manzul”)
Nearly four centuries ago, this arch was built as the entrance to the old village, and has been seen in various films since, including the Israeli War of Independence move Exodus (1960), starring Paul Newman. The Old Arch is connected to the house of Druze political and religious leader Sheik Labib, a trailblazer who played the instrumental role in forming an alliance between the Druze and the Jews beginning decades before the State of Israel was formed.
#4 - Byzantine Church
Dating back to the 5th Century, the Byzantine Church is the oldest church in Isfiya, and was a place of worship as well as a center for socializing and education.
#5 - Remains of 5th Century Jewish Village & Synagogue
In 1930, the remains of a 5th-century Jewish village, Husifah or Huseifa, were unearthed in Isfiya, revealing a synagogue with a mosaic floor bearing Jewish symbols and the inscription "Peace upon Israel,” as well as a cache of 4,500 gold coins dating back to the Roman period.
#6 - Olive Press
The Olive Press was built by the first Druze families to arrive in Isfiya four centuries ago in an ancient, natural cave. Olive oil became the primary product of Isfiya, and still is today. Come see how olive oil was made and try out the press yourself!
#7 - House of the Priest/New Entrance to the Old Village
The House of the Priest, at the current entrance to the Old Village of Isfiya, was where the priest educated Christians who arrived in Isfiya from Lebanon beginning 250 years ago.