The southern coast of Israel combines biblical landscapes with nature reserves and vast agricultural fields. It is also known for being in conflict with the Hamas regime ruling the Gaza Strip. This special private tour will combine ancient sites, a review of 1948 battles, and especially daily life today around the Gaza Strip.
Ashkelon is a city with 4,000 years of history from Canaanite to present times. We will review its medieval fortifications and walk through one of the oldest gates in the world. Reaching the coastline, we will stroll along a cliffside path with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. A remarkable display of marble sculptures near the exit is a reminder of the golden past of this city in classical times as well.
A short drive towards the Gaza Strip will bring us to Yad Mordechai. Formed in 1943, this kibbutz was named after Mordechai Anielewicz, the leader of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising during the Holocaust. The kibbutz itself faced a fatal attack by Egyptian forces in 1948. For 6 continuous days it fought to stop the Egyptians from advancing towards Tel Aviv. Eventually, this battle formed the southwest border of Israel.
Next, we will drive to the border crossing into Gaza (“Erez” Checkpoint). Here, we will see its operation for humanitarian cases despite Palestinian animosity towards Israel. In 2005, the Palestinians were given full control of the Gaza Strip, yet sadly they have been governed by the Hamas. This fanatic Islamic regime leads an uncompromising policy: the annihilation of Israel and the formation of a religious Islamic Palestinian state.
In the nearby town of Sderot, we will have a light lunch break and then tour the city. We will learn about the special measures taken by the state of Israel to protect the citizens of Sderot. Every house, school and bus stop has cemented bomb shelters. Even the playgrounds have unique protective installations. At the local police station, you will be able to view a display of samples of the thousands of rockets launched at the city over the past 20 years.
Although Ashkelon is one of the oldest port cities in the world, it never had, well, a port. Cargo boats docked in its shallow waters and little vessels transported the goods.
