Galilee, Israel  הגליל‎

Sunset over Safed, Galilee, Israel — August 8, 1996

With an elevation of 2,790 feet, the airy artist community of Safed has the highest altitude of any town in Israel. This prime location offers a cool retreat from the otherwise scorching weather found in the Galilee region. Although Safed has major religious significance, it is the artists, musicians and the scenic beauty that catch my affection. In fact, I would go so far as to say that Safed is reminiscent of my previous hometown of Santa Cruz, CA. Yet all things considered, I find one of the most interesting aspect about Safed is the many ways people spell its name: Safed, Safad, Safed, Saphet, Saffed, Safes, Saffad, Tsfat, Tsfet, Tzfat, Tzfet, Cfat, Zafet, Zafat, Zefat, Zefet, Zfat, Zfed and Zephath.

Road near Metula, Galilee, Israel — August 8, 1996

Enjoying the local culture, Safed, Galilee, Israel — August 8, 1996

Fatima Gate, Metula, Galilee, Israel — August 8, 1996

Sunset over Safed, Israel — August 8, 1996

Sunset over Safed, Israel — August 8, 1996

Fatima Gate or Good Fence, Metula, Galilee, Israel — August 8, 1996

During the Israeli occupation of Lebannon, injured Lebanese were allowed to cross this border for medical treatment.

Note the car of choice of the IDF: Mercedes 123