| What makes it historical? |
This site, which gets its modern name from the castle-like Monastery of St John the Baptist, is associated with three important events in Jewish and Christian tradition! For Jewish folks, it was where the Israelites, led by Joshua, first crossed into the Promised Land after their Exodus from Egypt! It was also where the prophet, Elijah is believed to have ascended into Heaven, escorted by fiery chariots!
Today, this site is largely a Christian pilgrimage site, because it’s where it’s believed St. John the Baptist conducted his signature baptism on Jesus of Nazareth! After the Six-Day War of 1967, this site was actually closed to pilgrims for the better part of 44 years because of how close it was to Jordan’s border, but as of 2011, it’s open to visitors from around the world! |
