Religious Significance

Nazareth formed an important part of the childhood and early life of Jesus.  Although he was born in Bethlehem, according to Matthew 2:23, after Joseph and Mary returned with Jesus from Egypt, "And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene".

Nazareth has to its name many important churches and synagogues, some of which are listed below:

• Church of Annunciation, also known as the Basilica of Annunciation

This church has great historic and religious significance as it is believed to be constructed on top of a cave that was Virgin Mary’s home. It was here that Virgin Mary was given the news that she would soon have a baby son, Jesus. Therefore, this is also believed to be the birthplace of Jesus.

This church was built when this city became a significant pilgrimage site owing to the incident narrated above.

• The Synagogue Church

This is another historically and religiously significant Church that was built on the original synagogue where Jesus is believed to have performed acts of worship in his initial life. Furthermore, he also gave his famous sermon on Sabbath Day over here. This specific incident has also been mentioned in the Bible with reference to Nazareth,

“And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read.” (Luke 4:15-16)

This statement clearly states two facts, that Jesus had been brought up in Nazareth and that he did indeed give his Sermon on Sabbath Day at Nazareth.

• Church of Saint Joseph

This church is believed to be built above the workshop of Virgin Mary’s Husband. Therefore, it is also known as the Church of Joseph’s Workshop. It’s located pretty close to the Church of Annunciation, so both these places can be visited in a single go.

Other churches in Nazareth include the Greek Orthodox Church of Annunciation, the Maronite Church, the Salesian Church, and the Mensa Christi Church.

Other significant tourist spots

Nazareth not only has beautiful and significant churches but it also holds archaeological and architectural significance. Here are a few of the top tourist spots in Nazareth:

• White Mosque, Nazareth

This splendid structure, amongst others, is exemplary of Ottoman architecture and is evident of the influence that Ottoman architecture had on the city of Nazareth during their rule. This mosque also contains an impressive museum.

• The local market

Nazareth’s local market is pretty famous among the tourists who come to visit this place, so make sure you visit it too!

All in all, Nazareth has a rich culture and many religiously significant sites!