Via Dolorosa, the sorrowful way

So, we went to Israel and travelled to the Sea of Galilee. The heat was almost unbearable, except for the very early morning hours, when we went down to the lake to see the sun rise, while people were fishing and swimming. 

We continued along the Dead sea, not able to go where we planned due to all the restrictions. However, found a green and lush place in the middle of the dry landscape where to eat lunch and rest for a bit. And while the heat became worse in the afternoon, we crossed the mountains, where the air was cooler and the views magnificent.

And by the crack of dawn, we climbed the fortress of Masada to reach the top when the first sun rays were spotted behind the mountains in Jordan.

In the early afternoon we reached Jerusalem. This mysterious place and centre of everything. We passed the gates to the old city and almost had to push ourselves through the narrow and very crowded streets. We reached the West wall and got a glimpse of the famous view from the stairs up to the Jewish quarters. 

And when the evening hit us, we walked all the stairs up to the Mountain of Olives and watched this vibrant, irresistible, and complicated city become soft and golden, while the sun disappeared behind her. So many people who claims her to be theirs. Containing so much history, so much holiness. And yet, this non-negotiable feeling that the matter of things are not all right.