Yodfat Ridge: Art, History and the Human Spirit

Explore the landscapes of the Galilee through sculpture, ancient history and places of quiet reflection. This tour follows the ways people give meaning to materials, places and their lives, turning ideas into something they can build with their own hands.

We begin at a sculpture garden, where form and material express the artist’s search for meaning. We then walk along the promenade between Manof and Shekhanya, taking in open views and pausing to observe the landscape. Near Shekhanya Cave, we explore the hidden natural world beneath the ridge and learn about its rock formations and resident bats. Any entry into the cave is subject to conservation restrictions and confirmation before the tour.

At Tel Yodfat, we turn to the story of the ancient town and the people who fortified it before facing a devastating siege. Among its remains, we consider questions of determination, human choice and the cost of standing by one’s convictions.

We finish at Netofa Hermitage in Hararit, a place of silence and contemplation whose underground church was created from a Byzantine-era cistern. Here, craftsmanship and faith offer another perspective on the search for meaning, through simplicity, reflection and a close connection to place.

From sculptures and ancient fortifications to a secluded hermitage, this tour explores what people choose to build and what they hope to find through creating it. Along the way, the Galilee’s landscapes provide space to reflect on creativity, belonging and resilience.

Highlights:

• A sculpture garden exploring the relationship between material, form and meaning.
• A scenic walk along the Manof–Shekhanya promenade.
• The natural setting of Shekhanya Cave and its protected wildlife.
• Ancient Yodfat and its story of fortification, siege and resilience.
• Netofa Hermitage in Hararit, a place of craftsmanship, faith and quiet reflection.

Sela is a licensed Israeli tour guide with over 20 years of experience. Based in the Galilee, she specializes in family walks, wild food foraging, outdoor cooking and learning through experiences on the trail.

She graduated with honors from Bezalel’s Jewelry and Fashion Department and now teaches contemporary jewelry at Tel Hai University. A practicing artist who exhibits in Israel and abroad, she also works in metalwork and lighting design, drawing inspiration from the landscape around her.