Day five of our seminar had us saying goodbye to the Ginosar Kibbutz Hotel and heading towards Jerusalem. On our journey we made a stop at Zippori. We began the seminar with the emphasis on the importance of the water supply during the Crusader era. The technology these people used during this period to bring the water in from the springs in the mountains in Nazereth seemed ingenious. Through building a water reservoir, filtration and water flow were controlled coming into the city. By using waterproof plasters, the water was held within the walls of the aqueducts. We were able to see the plaster still coating the reservoir’s walls that dated back to the second century.
The group moved on to the top of the mountain where “we perched ourselves on top like birds” (Zippori). We were able to see where there was a synagogue and city. Then we entered a fortress to discover its mosaics. The artwork in these mosaics were incredible. The prize of the mosaics nicknamed the “Mona Lisa” was at the bottom center of the floor and she followed you with her eyes as you walked around her from above. We then walked through the city and saw more mosaics and bath houses and road markings that were of a candelabrum. We loaded back on to the bus and headed for Jerusalem. The group was able to catch some rest from the heat while allowing for time for us to reflect on the antiquities we encountered.
As we approached Jerusalem, the bus pulled to the side above the city and allowed us an opportunity for great photo ops. We then pulled into the city and visited Machne-Yehudah. This market was packed with people and food. The group had an opportunity to try the market’s cuisine and even a chance to talk to a local or two.
Finally, we checked into the King Solomon Hotel and had a chance to unpack and freshen up. We met up later to walk to the see Kabbalat Shabbat at the Western Wall. With the guidance of Avi, the group was given a full explanation of what was taking place at the wall and the meanings and roles of the people there. We (well the males) were able to walk towards the wall. We then we moved to an inside section of the wall and were able to see some of the 
rooms. Being my first experience, I was moved by the whole experience. As we were leaving, the prayers became louder, then a horn blew from the Mosque from the other side of the wall. It was the beginning of their prayers. Shortly after, the bells began to chime from the Catholic Church. The religions were all in unison. It will be a moment I will never forget.
– James Fleming