Wednesday afternoon - the whole group headed by taxi around the south end of the Sea of Galilee - across the Jordan River (which is about 15 feet wide here) - up the dry hillside to the ruins of Sucita (Hyppos) - one of the decopolis, established originally as a Greek/Roman administrative center for the region. More recently, this was a military outpost for the Israeli army from 1948-1967 when Israel secured the Golan Heights. (I think if the US ARmy were stationed on top of ancient ruins, there wouldn't be much left to see - no offense). The original Roman roads, cistern and water system, reused remnants from temples that were incorporated into 4 byzantine churches (5-6th C.) and lots of interesting archeological elements are just sitting around, no security, no fence except to keep visitors away from potential mine fields. Great birds, strange plants. It's really incredible - pillars of granite hauled up the mountain, coming all the way from Egypt. Human beings do impressive work when they are determined. This town would have existed in Jesus' time - but we know of no connection with him. However, the winding road does connect the Sea of Galilee with Damascus - so perhaps Paul's encounter with Jesus occurred somewhere along this route.
Wednesday evening - lovely dinner, well-seasoned food - I skipped the salad bar - at the Scot Hotel. Rev. Colin kept the conversation interesting - comparing his assignment in Tiberias with his prior pastorate in Zambia. Memorable to be served on the outdoor patio by staff he knew by name.
Tiberias is in a great setting, except it is HOT already - I can't imagine it in July. While there are many Orthodox Jews who vacation here, it has a very secular feel with the tourist venues, shops, and eateries. It would feel quite isolated before the invention of the auto/bus due to the mountains ringing the lake.
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