Today, Masada has become a symbol for freedom and independence for the Jewish people. Masada is an unforgettable experience. After your birthright/Oranim visit you will understand why.

Masada is a legend, rising above the shores of the Dead Sea, Masada is a spectacular archeological find. Separated from the surrounding mountain range by two deep wadis (gorges) nature had fortified Masada.

In the years 37-4 B.C.E, King Herod further fortified Masada and turned it into a luxury palace with steam baths and water cisterns. Herod sought a decadent life.

In 66 CE, during the Jewish Revolt against the Romans, Masada was captured by a small group of Jewish Zealots. They became a small pocket of resistance. A symbol of defiance in a losing battle against Rome. 967 men, women and children were to decide to kill themselves rather than live as slaves to the Romans

The attempt to besiege Masada was led in 72 CE however by the Roman General Silva. Building a wall around the base of the mountain and eight siege camps to prevent escape by the Jews. It soon became clear that a barricade would not starve the well stocked Jews into surrender.

As you will see the Romans erected a ramp on the western side of Masada. The ramp exists until today. When the Zealot leader, Elazar Ben Yair saw their inevitable victory of the Romans he summoned his followers to decide their own fate

Everybody decided to die as a free people rather than be taken as slaves.

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