Tel Aphek

If you're looking for a site on your pilgrimage to Israel that has beautiful landscaping as well as rich history then Tel Aphek is the site for you. Surrounded by beautiful grounds, Tel Aphek was named by Herod the Great after his father, Antipatris. It is located east of Tel Aviv and is set a little ways off of the main way, however, it played a major role in biblical times, having guarded the headwaters of the Yarkon River as it straddled the ancient Via Maris highway. A 16th century fortress here lies above the ruins of ancient cities, including Aphek, which was mentioned in Joshua's conquest (Josh 12:18). The Ark of the Covenant was lost here later on to the Philistines during battle (1 Sam. 4:1-18). Visitors on Israel guided tours can see the Yarkon Springs from the fortress's walls as well as the excavation of the Roman City that was built in 9 BC by Herod. This is also the place where Paul was brought on his way to Caesarea under Roman guard (Acts 23:31). Tel Aphek is a wonderful site to visit as it is rich in beauty and history.