A restored ancient synagogue could be the most amazing and meaningful venue for your Bar or Bat Mitzvah in Israel. Why not celebrate becoming a Jewish adult in a restored synagogue where our ancestors prayed thousands of years ago?
Masada Synagogue
The Synagogue on top of the Masada mountain is a symbol of the determination of the Jewish people to survive. This makes it a particularly meaningful place to celebrate a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah. Of course, Masada is in the Judean desert and it can be very hot in summer. It is important to arrive there early because it is crowded in busy seasons, so it can take time to ascend the mountain in the Cable Car. But the views are stunning and the historic location is true Jewish landmark for celebrating your coming of age.
Ein Gedi Synagogue
The ancient synagogue of Ein Gedi is an amazing historical location for your Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony and celebration. It was discovered in the 1970s, and the archeologists revealed a well-preserved mosaic floor from the 5th or 6th century. It is located alongside the Dead Sea with amazing views and opportunities for touring and relaxing in the lowest place on earth. There are hotels in the Kibbutz at Ein Gedi and at Ein Bokek nearby where you can stay and hold a celebratory breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Ein Keshatot Synagogue
This newly restored archaeological gem in the Golan Heights dates back to the 1st century and was only opened to the public in 2018. It took 15 years and NIS 30 million to restore this Byzantine synagogue, with its carved basalt Torah ark. It is one of the largest of the 30 ancient synagogues that have been uncovered to date in the Golan Heights, and it was rebuilt after it collapsed during the earthquake of 749 CE. Near to the Ein Keshatot synagogue there is a natural spring with three pools where visitors can swim, and an orchard with seating where families can hold picnics.
Talmudic Village of Katzrin
Also in the Golan Heights, the reconstructed Talmudic Village of Katzrin offers a number of themed activities recreating daily life in the 1st and 2nd century. The ancient synagogue is a stunning open-air venue for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration, and you can involve the whole family in bread baking, olive pressing and pottery making workshops.
The Western Wall
Of course, the most meaningful venue of all is the Western Wall of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem. We recommend holding your ceremony on the platform near to Robinson’s Arch where all the family can participate together in a meaningful and personal ceremony, away from the crowds in the main Plaza area. There are many restaurants in the Old City and, a little further away, in the new city of Jerusalem, where the family can enjoy a celebratory meal after your ceremony, and there are infinite opportunities for touring, including the Chain of Generations exhibit next to the Western Wall. After all, becoming Bar or Bat Mitzvah means that you are now a new link in that chain!
Whichever venue you choose, Shatour Israel Experience can help you to organize a unique and meaningful Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah ceremony in a stunning location, as part of your family’s tour of Israel. Talk to us as soon as you know the dates of your celebration.