Zippori, the old capital of the Galilee region, located near Nazareth, was a historical city of great importance, and a site surrounded by great views, rivers, and hiking options. While you can find various things to do in this hidden gem, above all, the main drawing point of Zippori is the Mona Lisa of Galilee, an incredible mosaic that was discovered in the ancient city. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling in Zippori.
The Story of Zippori and Mona Lisa of Galilee
About 2,000 years ago, the Romans ruled almost the entirety of Asia, and Zippori became the central city in the Galilee. The city combined two opposing factors: about 20,000 Jews lived there, but it also embodied a completely Western character, showcasing all the well-known symbols of the Roman Empire. The ancient city of Zippori had a theater, a cardo, bathhouses, one of the country’s largest waterworks, and numerous impressive houses. Known as the “city of mosaics,” Zippori featured the famous Mona Lisa of Galilee mosaic as its most impressive work.
During the Great Revolt of 66–73, the Jewish residents of Zippori chose to remain loyal to the Romans. This controversial decision among the Jewish population effectively saved the city from destruction. Unlike Jerusalem or Masada, where the Jewish population vanished entirely, Zippori continued to thrive.
Between 73 and 351, Zippori served as the center of Jewish religion and one of the most important cities in the land of Israel. From 188 to 218, Judah ha-Nasi spent 17 years in Zippori, where he compiled the final form of the Mishna, Judaism’s most important book after the Bible.
Two major events in the mid-4th century led to the city’s destruction. In 351, the Jewish revolt against Constantius Gallus prompted the Romans to expel Zippori’s Jewish population. Then, in 363, a powerful earthquake destroyed most of the city. Since then, Zippori remained nearly empty until 1949, when the state of Israel established the modern small town of Zippori.
Zippori in Christianity
According to Christian tradition, Zippori, known as Sepphoris, was home to the parents of Mary, Saints Anne, and Joachim. Due to this belief, as many as 18 churches were built in Zippori over the years, and during the Byzantine period, it got the status of a Diocese.
Best sites to visit in Zippori National Park
House of Dionysus and Mona Lisa of Galilee
I’ll never forget my first time stepping into the House of Dionysus at Zippori National Park. As I made my way through the remnants of this large villa, I could almost feel the presence of the Greek wine god himself—aptly hinted at by the name that derives from the breathtaking mosaic floor in the central lounge. The mosaic, which dates back to the early 3rd century, vividly depicts scenes of Dionysus’s worship and life. It’s hard to imagine that this once-grand villa may have met its end in the earthquake of 363, as researchers believe.
But the moment that really caught my breath was coming face-to-face with “the Mona Lisa of Galilee,” a striking mosaic of a woman whose visage bears an uncanny resemblance to Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece. It’s remarkable how well-preserved her features are, allowing me to stand there, centuries later, marveling at the intricate details that went into her mosaic portrait. And the House of Dionysus doesn’t stop there—every turn revealed another mosaic more stunning than the last, offering me a window into the artistry and lifestyle of an ancient era.
Church of St Anna
A church from the 2nd century that was built in the place where, according to Christian tradition, Anna and Joachim, the grandmother and grandfather of Jesus, have lived.
From here, it is also highly recommended to go up to the lookout which is a few minutes’ walk above the church. Today the Santa Ana boarding school, a boarding school for at-risk youth, is located here, and the view from here is particularly spectacular, with a great look at the entire Lower Galilee.
Other sites in Zippori National Park
Zippori National Park is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Israel and a great visit for history lovers who wish to learn more about the history of this ancient city. During your visit here, in addition to the Mona Lisa of Galilee, you can see the remains of an ancient synagogue, with a magnificent mosaic with Jewish motifs, at the entrance to the park, as well as an ancient underground water system, which is one of the biggest of its kind.
In addition, we would highly recommend you to visit the restored ruins of the Roman theater, carved into the rock, from which you can see a spectacular view of the Upper Galilee Mountains.
Other attractions near the old city of Zippori
Zippori Springs
Zippori Springs are two clear springs, located right by the Zippori National park, which are part of the three springs that feed the Zippori River.
The springs are divided into 2 recreation places adjacent to each other. The first is a very shallow and clear pool, rich in pebbles and rocks. On the northern side of the pool, you can see archaeological remains of a wall made of stone – this is a remnant from the Roman period. In this pool, because it is very low, you can only wade your feet and not bathe with your whole body, but it is still a great place to relax in and have a picnic.
The second point, located just near the shallow pool, is a deeper pool, which is the great spring of a bird’s eye. The size of the pool is 5 meters by 5 meters and it has a square structure, so it is very comfortable for bathing.
Modern Zippori village
The modern village of Zippori is one of the most charming and peaceful villages in the Galilee. Here, you can find several different attractions, like horse-riding and jeep tours in the stunning landscape of the Lower Galilee. In addition, the great Zippori Winery and Jonnah Winery are two great sites to visit for those who are interested to learn more about the wine industry of the Galilee.
Those great attractions, along with a nice culinary scene, great views, and peaceful accommodation options, all make the modern Zippori village a great place to stop by for visitors who come to see the Mona Lisa of Galilee
