2 Best Sights in Around Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, Israel

This expansive domed mosque complex was built in the 13th century on the site that Muslims believe to be the tomb of Moses. Wander the halls and courtyards to admire the well-preserved Islamic architecture and peek into the shrine dedicated to Moses. The second floor offers stunning views of the surrounding desert. There are some stands in the shade outside where locals sell tea, cold drinks, and trinkets. Modest dress is required, including long skirts for women. Both Israeli- and Palestinian-plated cars are allowed here.

The Bible relates that the matriarch Rachel, second and favorite wife of Jacob, died in childbirth on the outskirts of Bethlehem, "and Jacob set up a pillar upon her grave" (Genesis 35:19–20). There is no trace of that pillar, but, for centuries Jews, Christians, and Muslims venerated the velvet-draped cenotaph inside the building as the site of Rachel's tomb. Palestinians call the site the Bilal Ben Rabah Mosque, and a Muslim cemetery lies beside it.

Today, the site is a concrete-enclosed Israeli enclave punched into Bethlehem and only accessible from the Israeli side. Visitors, especially Jewish women, come to pray for good health, fertility, and a safe birth. Some pilgrims wind a red thread seven times around the tomb, and wear snippets of it around their wrists as a talisman. Note that men and women are separated here and have different entrances. Superbus 163 runs from Jerusalem's Central Bus Station to the tomb.