As a small resort town, Ein Bokek may not have many famous landmarks, but its impressive history, where Jesus Christ and King Herod took refuge, makes the land on which the resort is located a significant attraction.
Most popular among tourists is the Fortress of Massada, which was built before Christ by King Herod himself. This place became the last refuge for Jewish fanatics. After a three-year siege, some of the 960 men, women, and children chose to end their lives rather than surrender to the Romans, who destroyed Jerusalem. Surrounded by sheer cliffs, the fortress appears impregnable and majestic. It can only be reached from one side by the "snake path" or by cable car.
When describing the sights of Ein Bokek, local guides pay special attention to Mount Sodom, which is made of rock salt. The biblical story says that it was here that God's wrath descended on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah in the form of sulfur and fire rain, and Lot's wife was turned into a pillar of salt. There is indeed a statue of a woman made of salt that has been captured in photographs of Ein Bokek sights, and many believe it represents Lot's wife looking back at the crumbling city.
The Ein Bokek sightseeing map will also point tourists to the Ein Gedi National Reserve. The ticket costs 25 ILS and entitles you to visit the synagogue as well. Children accompanied by an adult receive a discounted ticket.
When describing the sights of Ein Bokek, one cannot fail to mention Nahal Bokek, a spring flowing through a beautiful canyon with picturesque nature and healing springs.
The sights of Ein Bokek with historical names include the remains of a Roman-Byzantine outpost, as well as the ruins of the Bekekek fortress. Historians believe that it was built during the Hasmonean dynasty.
