Visit to the Holy Land, 15 days (for Orthodox groups)

Christian Galilee. Our day begins at Mount Tabor, the revered site of the Glorious Transfiguration of the Lord. Here, we’ll visit the Monastery of the Transfiguration, where you can reflect on the profound moment when Jesus revealed His divine glory to His disciples. We’ll also have the opportunity to admire the Miraculous Akathist Icon of the Mother of God, a powerful symbol of faith and devotion that has inspired many throughout the centuries. Our journey continues to Nazareth, where we’ll explore significant sites including: The Church of the Annunciation: This beautiful church is built above the home where the Holy Family lived, marking the moment of the Annunciation when Mary received the angel Gabriel’s message. Orthodox Church of St. George the Victorious: Discover the underground catacombs of this historic church, which adds depth to the rich tapestry of faith in this area. Church of the Archangel Gabriel: Located at the Source of the Virgin Mary, this church commemorates the angelic visitation and Mary’s acceptance of her divine role. Finally, we’ll visit Cana of Galilee, where we’ll explore the church dedicated to the First Miracle of Jesus—turning water into wine at the wedding feast. This site is a celebration of joy and transformation, reflecting the heart of Christ's ministry. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberias

Christian Galilee. Sea of Galilee. On its shores, the Lord chose his disciples from among the fishermen and called them to apostolic service. Here He preached, performed many miracles and appeared to the apostles after His Resurrection. The site of the Russian Spiritual Mission in Magdala is the place of healing by the Lord of St. equal to Mary Magdalene. Capernaum with the church above the house of the Apostle Peter. Monastery of the Cathedral of the Twelve Apostles. The Mount of Beatitudes is the site of the Sermon on the Mount. Tabgah is the place of the wonderful multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes. The Jordan River is a place of washing in sacred waters. Before all the rivers of the earth, the great Jordan was chosen. The sins of all mankind were washed away in its waters. Here our Lord Jesus Christ laid the foundation for the saving sacrament of Baptism and from here began His ministry Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberias

Christian Galilee. We begin our exploration at Korazim, the ruins of a Roman-Byzantine city steeped in tradition. According to legend, it is said that the Antichrist will emerge from this very place, adding a sense of mystery to our visit. Next, we’ll journey to Bethsaida, the ancient city believed to be the birthplace of the apostles Peter and Andrew. Here, the echoes of early Christian history come alive, offering insights into the lives of these pivotal figures. Our next stop is Kursi, known for the miraculous healing of the demoniac by Jesus. At this site, you’ll find a remarkably preserved Byzantine monastery, which stands as a testament to the region's rich spiritual legacy. Optional Experiences: Boat Ride on the "Jesus Boat": Immerse yourself in the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee with an optional ride on the "Jesus Boat," a memorable way to connect with the land where Jesus performed many miracles. Dining at a Local Fish Restaurant: Treat yourself to a meal at a local restaurant on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, where you can savor “St. Peter’s fish.” This dish, traditionally caught by the apostles, offers a delicious taste of the region's culinary heritage. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberias

Monasteries of the Judean Desert. Our scenic journey takes us along the Jordan Valley, a region rich in biblical history and natural beauty. The Desert of the Holy City: As we travel, we’ll reflect on the significance of the Judean Desert, where monasteries and laurel trees were revered since the Council of Nicaea for their spiritual heritage and tranquility. Jericho: Known as the oldest city in the world, Jericho is our first major stop. Here, we’ll explore the historic sites that connect us to ancient times. Climb to the Monastery of the Temptations: Ascend the Forty Day Mountain to visit this significant monastery, which marks the site of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Monastery of the Prophet Elisha: Discover this sacred site dedicated to the prophet known for his miraculous works. The Ancient Sycamore: Stand beneath the legendary tree associated with Zacchaeus, the publican who climbed to see Jesus. Metochion of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission: Visit the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission of St. John the Baptist in Jericho, where you can learn about the rich history of Christian presence in this ancient city. Monastery of St. Gerasim of Jordan: This monastery preserves a cave believed to be where the Holy Family stayed during their flight to Egypt, adding a layer of significance to our visit. Monastery of St. George Khozevit: Nestled in the breathtaking Wadi Kelt gorge, this monastery is notable for its connection to the prophet Elijah, who hid in a cave here for three years, nourished by ravens. Above the cave, you’ll find a stunning temple dedicated to Elijah, providing a moment of contemplation amid the rugged beauty of the gorge. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Jerusalem

Jerusalem - Old City. Way of the Cross: The Via Dolorosa, or Road of Sorrow, is the path that Jesus walked to His crucifixion. Key locations along this route include: Roman Praetoria: Located in the Antonia Fortress, where the death sentence was pronounced. Chapel of the Flagellation: The site where Jesus was scourged. Meeting Place with the Mother of God: A poignant moment of encounter between Jesus and His mother. Threshold of the Gates of Judgment: Also known as the “Eye of the Needle” (Alexandrovskoye Metochion). As the journey continues, it leads to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, where pilgrims venerate the Holy Sepulcher itself. The path culminates at Calvary, also known as Golgotha, and includes significant sites such as the Stone of Confirmation and the Temple of Jacob, brother of the Lord. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Jerusalem

Bethlehem. Hebron. Bethlehem: The Church of the Nativity of Christ marks the birthplace of the Savior, featuring the Cave of the Nativity, the cave of the murdered Bethlehem babies, and the cave of St. Jerome, along with the miraculous icon of the Mother of God known as "Bethlehem." Nearby is the "Milk Cave," where the Mother of God is said to have fed the baby Jesus. This area includes the field of Bethlehem, where Ruth met Boaz, and is significant as the childhood home of King David, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel. The Church of the Shepherds, an underground church built in a cave, commemorates the angels' announcement of Christ's birth to the three shepherds on that holy night. Above the cave of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker lies another church that houses a piece of his relics, brought from Bari. The Monastery of St. Theodosius the Great is the first monastery established based on the model of communal living, situated near the cave where the Magi stayed after visiting the infant Jesus. Lavra St. Savva the Sanctified is the only monastery in the desert of the Holy City, dedicated to preserving ancient monastic traditions. In Hebron, the Trinity Monastery features the Church of the Holy Trinity and Holy Forefathers, alongside the Oak of Mamre. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Jerusalem

Jerusalem. Mount of Olives. Panorama of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives: The Russian Spaso-Voznesensky Monastery, located at the site of the Finding of the Head of St. John the Baptist, features the Cathedral of the Ascension of the Lord and the bell tower known as the “Russian Candle.” Nearby is “Stopochka,” the traditional site of the Lord’s Ascension. Gethsemane: The Russian Monastery of St. Mary Magdalene, Equal to the Apostles, houses the relics of Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna and Nun Varvara. Pilgrims can venerate the miraculous icon of the Mother of God, "Hodegetria." The cave church contains the tomb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as well as the tombs of St. Joachim and Anna, and St. Joseph the Betrothed. The miraculous icon of the Mother of God “Jerusalem” is also located here. The Garden of Gethsemane is a place of prayer for the Chalice. The Church of All Nations, built on the site of an ancient Byzantine temple, commemorates Christ’s prayer before His arrest and crucifixion. The Jehoshaphat (Kedron) Valley is significant as the place of the Last Judgment. City of King David: The Pool of Siloam is renowned as the place where Jesus healed a man born blind. Mount Zion: Here lies the Tomb of King David and the Upper Room of the Last Supper, where the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles on Pentecost. The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is situated on the site of the house of John the Theologian. Church of St. Peter (Church of the Cock's Crow): This church stands at the location of the high priest Caiaphas’s house, where Jesus was taken after His arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. It was here that the Apostle Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Jerusalem