Views of towns and villages surrounded by a countryside of patchwork fields await at the 1,302-feet (397-meter) tall Mount of Precipice. Sit and gaze across areas of the Holy Land while contemplating historical events that occurred thousands of years ago. Part of The Gospel Trail, a route that retraces the footsteps of Jesus, the Mount of Precipice holds great religious significance. Legend states that Jesus escaped the clutches of an enraged mob that wanted to throw him from the top.
From the mountaintop appreciate views of the fertile plains of the Jezreel Valley stretching for miles in all directions. Look north over the ancient city of Nazareth, home to numerous landmarks associated with the life of Jesus. To the east you can see Mount Tabor and the Arab village of Iksal. The southern side faces the moshav (cooperative agricultural community) of Tel-Adashim.
Visit the mountaintop on a clear and sunny day to benefit from the best views and excellent photo opportunities. Arrive for sunrise, when the sun appears from behind Mount Tabor and casts a mystical light over the valley. Alternatively, come late in the afternoon to watch the sun drift down over Nazareth’s rooftops.
Located to the north of the mount is the ruined Our Lady of the Fright church. It takes its name from the belief that Mary, mother of Jesus, stood here as the angry Nazareth villagers led Jesus to the edge of the mountain. Another interesting landmark, although not open to tourists, is a cave on the western slopes. Excavations found evidence of monk inhabitants from the 6th century and a set of Neanderthal skeletons.
The Mount of Precipice is about a 10-minute drive from central Nazareth. Access to the summit is via a short uphill walk from a car park. Continue your discovery of the Holy Land by bike, car or on foot as you follow The Gospel Trail. From the mountaintop it passes through Nazareth and then travels to Capernaum, on the northern shores of the Sea of Galilee.
