In General, when Protestant followers of Jesus think of walking in the footsteps of the Bible, they typically think Israel. Catholic followers of Jesus think to visit Rome or the Vatican. Greek Orthodox followers of Jesus think of Greece.

No matter your Christian faith background, I hope you too would have a hunger to visit these sites. Either in person one day or from wherever you are reading this article. Even If you don’t visit these sites, you still have a need within you to gain Biblical insight and appreciation. Together we want to better understand the incredible reality of the Bible, where it took place, and how the truth is still unfolding in our worlds today.

Please note, the locations that I mention will be linguistically described and named based on their modern day boundary lines. Though the locations remain the same, some names have changed over the centuries.

Why study and/or visit Biblical historical sites?

Archaeological sites reveal the rich historical truths of the ancient and Biblical world. When studying (and hopefully visiting) these locations we engage directly with the context that makes up the reality that not only makes up the Bible. Context is the most vital part of studying the Bible next to knowing how to read, it is that crucial.

Studying a text without context is only pretext.

The Bible is an ancient document, written in ancient languages, translated into modern languages and cultures that do not hold to the same assumed contextual understanding as did the hearers and readers 2,000-3,000 years ago!

Contextual discoveries to focus on when studying Biblical sites to help enhance our understanding and study of the Biblical/Ancient world

• Archaeological sites
• Ancient cities that exist today under different names or location
• Original versus modern spoken languages
• Geography
• World and Biblical History to that location and region
• Chronology of Biblical events with external Biblical records
• Economy
• Culture
• Religions and cults of the era

When reading the Bible and mapping out certain sites, there is a pretty large map that we are working with. When studying the Old Testament period, there were dozens of people groups and regions that spanned the ancient near east. Extending as far West as Spain, as South as Egypt (or farther), and as East as India (or farther). What is known as the modern day 10/40 window, or Middle East, best describes the region of the Old Testament.

What is the Levant region?

The Levant, a term often used to describe the Eastern Mediterranean region, holds profound significance in Biblical history as the setting for many of the Bible’s most pivotal events. This area includes modern-day countries such as: Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and parts of Turkey. Encompassing a rich tapestry of landscapes from coastal plains to rugged mountains and fertile valleys.

The Levant served as a crossroads of ancient civilizations, connecting Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Mediterranean world, making it a vibrant center of trade, culture, and religious development. For those exploring the lands of the Bible, the Levant offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of prophets, kings, and apostles, where stories of faith, miracles, and covenant were lived and recorded.

Does the Levant region show up more in the Old or New Testament?

The Levant region is predominantly described in the Old Testament, as it forms the geographic backdrop for much of Israel’s history, including the stories of the patriarchs, the Exodus, the conquest of Canaan, the establishment of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, and the ministries of prophets like Elijah and Isaiah. Key cities and locations such as Jerusalem, Jericho, and Mount Carmel feature prominently in these narratives.

While the New Testament also references the Levant, particularly in the life and ministry of Jesus in Israel and the early spread of Christianity, its focus expands to include the broader Mediterranean world as the apostles carried the Gospel to regions like Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome.

Biblical Sites to visit in the Levant region

Jerusalem, Israel

Biblical Significance of Jerusalem:

Old Testament Perspective:
Jerusalem is first mentioned as Salem, the city of Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18), and later becomes the city King David established as Israel’s capital (2 Samuel 5:6-7). It housed the Ark of the Covenant and Solomon’s Temple, symbolizing God’s dwelling among His people (1 Kings 8). Prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah spoke of Jerusalem’s role in God’s plans, both in judgment and restoration (Isaiah 2:3, Jeremiah 3:17).

New Testament Perspective:
Jerusalem is central to Jesus’ ministry, from His teaching in the Temple (Luke 2:41-50) to His crucifixion and resurrection (Luke 23-24). It also marks the birthplace of the early Church, as the Holy Spirit descended at Pentecost (Acts 2). Jerusalem embodies both the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the launching point of the Gospel to the nations.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Jerusalem:

1. Temple Mount
   The Temple Mount, home to the First and Second Temples, is central to Jerusalem’s Biblical significance. The First Temple, built by Solomon, was the dwelling place of God’s presence (1 Kings 6), while the Second Temple was the spiritual heart of Jewish worship during Jesus’ time (Matthew 21:12-13). It remains a symbol of God’s covenant with His people.
2. The Garden of Gethsemane
   Located at the foot of the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane is where Jesus prayed before His arrest (Matthew 26:36-46). It is a place of profound reflection on Jesus’ submission to God’s will and the sacrifice that followed.
3. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre/Golgotha Area
   Believed to encompass the site of Jesus’ crucifixion (Golgotha) and resurrection (John 19:17-20:18), this area is one of Christianity’s holiest locations. While the exact historical layout is debated, its spiritual significance as the fulfillment of God’s redemption plan is unparalleled.

Bethlehem, Palestine

Biblical Significance of Bethlehem:

Old Testament Perspective:
Bethlehem, first mentioned as Ephrath, is where Rachel died and was buried (Genesis 35:19). It later became known as the “City of David,” where David was born and anointed as king (1 Samuel 16:1-13). Prophets foretold that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2), tying it directly to God’s plan for redemption.

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, Bethlehem is the setting of Jesus’ birth, fulfilling the prophecy in Micah 5:2 (Matthew 2:1-6). The humility of Bethlehem contrasts with the greatness of the Messiah’s mission, emphasizing God’s choice to work through the lowly to accomplish His purposes (Luke 2:7). This small town became the focal point of the incarnation, marking the dawn of salvation history.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Bethlehem:

1. Church of the Nativity
   Built over the traditional site of Jesus’ birth, the Church of the Nativity commemorates the incarnation of Christ (Luke 2:4-7). This location reminds visitors of the humble beginnings of the Savior who came to redeem humanity.
2. Shepherds’ Field
   Near Bethlehem, the Shepherds’ Field is traditionally identified as the area where angels announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-20). It symbolizes God’s message of peace and salvation, first revealed to ordinary people.

Cairo, Egypt

Biblical Significance of Egypt:

Old Testament Perspective:
Egypt features prominently as a land of both refuge and bondage. Joseph’s journey to Egypt (Genesis 37:28) led to his rise as a ruler under Pharaoh, saving his family during famine (Genesis 41:41-57). Later, Egypt became the place of Israel’s oppression until God’s deliverance through Moses in the Exodus (Exodus 3-12), a central event in Israel’s history and faith.

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, Egypt is remembered as a place of refuge for the Holy Family, fulfilling the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my Son” (Hosea 11:1, Matthew 2:15). This connection ties Egypt to God’s redemptive plan, highlighting its role in safeguarding the Messiah during His early years. Egypt’s Biblical narrative underscores God’s sovereignty and His ability to transform places of hardship into settings for His purposes.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Egypt:

1. Pyramids of Giza and Cairo Region
   While not directly mentioned in the Bible, the pyramids represent the grandeur of ancient Egypt, where the Israelites lived during their captivity (Exodus 1:11). The region evokes the backdrop of Joseph’s rise to power and the early chapters of Israel’s story.
2. Mount Sinai (Traditional Site: St. Catherine’s Monastery)
   Located in the Sinai Peninsula, Mount Sinai is where Moses received the Ten Commandments (Exodus 19-20). It is a site of profound significance, representing God’s covenant with His people and the foundation of His law.
3. Path of the Holy Family
   Egypt played a pivotal role in the New Testament when Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus fled there to escape Herod’s decree (Matthew 2:13-15). Several locations along this route are revered as places where the Holy Family found refuge, symbolizing God’s protection and guidance.

Biblical Sites to visit in Southern Europe (Asia Minor)

When studying the New Testament period, this reach extends beyond the Levant into Europe, Africa, and Central Asia. The life of Christ onto the pioneering of the early church would stretch vast across the Roman Empire, taking the Gospel farther, broader, and quicker than one could have expected. With this, we see a wide variety of cultures, people groups, languages, and opposing religions.

As well as the commonality of the dispersion of Jews (hence the relevance of synagogues in every major city), common language, education, religions/cults, economic, and trade. As much as there is diversity in culture in the New Testament there is just as much a commonality that can help springboard us into deep study of the New Testament world.

Ephesus, Turkeyi

Biblical Significance of Ephesus:

New Testament Perspective:
Ephesus is a major focal point in the New Testament. Paul established a strong Christian community there during his missionary journeys (Acts 18:19-21, Acts 19). His letter to the Ephesians emphasizes unity in Christ and spiritual growth (Ephesians 1-6).

Ephesus is also one of the seven churches addressed by Jesus in the Book of Revelation, where He commended their perseverance but urged them to reclaim their first love (Revelation 2:1-7). Ephesus serves as a reminder of the transformative power of the Gospel in a pagan-dominated city and the ongoing need for faithfulness in Christian life.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Ancient Ephesus:

1. Library of Celsus and Agora
   The Library of Celsus and the surrounding marketplace highlight the cultural and intellectual prominence of Ephesus in the Roman era. Paul likely visited these bustling areas during his missionary work, preaching the Gospel amidst vibrant city life (Acts 19:9-10).
2. The Great Theater
   This grand structure, capable of seating over 20,000 people, is mentioned in Acts 19:29 as the site of a riot instigated by silversmiths opposing Paul’s teachings. The theater symbolizes both the city’s pagan culture and the challenges faced by the early Christians.
3. The Basilica of St. John
   Built over what is believed to be the tomb of the Apostle John, this site reflects the legacy of one of Jesus’ closest disciples, who spent his later years in Ephesus. John’s presence in the city and his role in addressing its church (Revelation 2:1-7) emphasize Ephesus’ importance in the early Christian community.

Island of Patmos, Greece

Biblical Significance of Patmos:

New Testament Perspective:
Patmos is mentioned in Revelation 1:9 as the place where the Apostle John was exiled “because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.” It was here that John received a series of visions about the end times, Christ’s ultimate victory, and the hope of a new heaven and earth (Revelation 21:1-4). Patmos serves as a symbol of perseverance and divine revelation, reminding believers that God’s purposes prevail even in times of isolation and hardship.

Three Significant Areas to Visit on the Island of Patmos:

1. Cave of the Apocalypse
   This sacred site is traditionally believed to be where the Apostle John received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 1:9-11). Visitors can reflect on the profound spiritual experience that birthed this prophetic book.
2. Monastery of Saint John the Theologian
   Built in honor of John, this monastery stands as a testament to his legacy and the spiritual significance of Patmos. Its architecture and relics offer insight into the island’s Christian heritage.
3. Chora (Patmos Town)
   The picturesque town of Chora surrounds the monastery and reflects the island’s blend of history and faith. Walking its narrow streets allows visitors to experience the serene beauty that frames the island’s Biblical significance.

Thessaloniki, Greece

Biblical Significance of Thessaloniki:

New Testament Perspective:
Thessaloniki was a key city during Paul’s second missionary journey. He spent time reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue, proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah (Acts 17:1-4). Despite facing opposition and being forced to leave, Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians (1 and 2 Thessalonians) reveal his deep affection for the believers there and his teachings on faith, hope, and the return of Christ. Thessaloniki exemplifies the endurance of early Christians and the spread of the Gospel in a diverse, influential city.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Thessaloniki:

1. Ancient Agora (Forum)
   The Ancient Agora served as the social, political, and commercial hub of Thessaloniki during Paul’s time. This area provides a glimpse into the bustling city where Paul preached and faced opposition (Acts 17:1-9).
2. Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
   While constructed later in history, these iconic structures reflect Thessaloniki’s prominence as a Roman city. They stand as a backdrop to the city’s importance during Paul’s missionary journeys and the early spread of Christianity.
3. Basilica of Saint Demetrius
   Dedicated to Thessaloniki’s patron saint, this church connects the modern city to its Christian heritage, reflecting the faith legacy Paul helped establish during his time there.

Athens, Greece

Biblical Significance of Athens:

New Testament Perspective:
Athens appears in the Bible as a city steeped in intellectualism and idolatry. During his visit, Paul was provoked by the numerous idols he encountered but used the Athenians’ religious curiosity to proclaim the Gospel (Acts 17:16-34). His sermon on the Areopagus emphasized God as the Creator and Judge, challenging the Greeks’ worldview while demonstrating how Christianity could engage with philosophy. Athens represents the call to boldly share the Gospel in the face of intellectual and cultural opposition.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Athens:

1. Areopagus (Mars Hill)
   The Areopagus is where Paul delivered his famous sermon to the Athenians, introducing the “unknown God” as the one true Creator (Acts 17:22-31). This site symbolizes the meeting of Greek philosophy and Christian theology.
2. Acropolis
   Dominated by temples like the Parthenon, the Acropolis reflects the city’s devotion to pagan gods, which Paul observed with concern (Acts 17:16). It offers a vivid backdrop for understanding the cultural context of Paul’s ministry in Athens.
3. Ancient Agora of Athens
   The Agora, the heart of Athenian social and intellectual life, is where Paul debated with philosophers and shared the Gospel (Acts 17:17-18). This area highlights the intellectual challenges Paul faced in spreading Christianity.

Corinth, Greece

Biblical Significance of Corinth:

New Testament Perspective:
Corinth was a major city during Paul’s missionary journeys, known for its strategic location and diverse population. Paul established a church there, offering spiritual guidance in letters that addressed challenges such as division, immorality, and spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians). Corinth also represents the transformative power of the Gospel in a culture steeped in sin, as Paul declared, “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). It stands as a testament to God’s grace and the enduring impact of Paul’s ministry.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Corinth:

1. Ancient Agora (Forum of Corinth)
   This central marketplace was a hub of daily life in Corinth. Paul likely visited this area during his 18-month stay, preaching the Gospel and engaging with the city’s diverse population (Acts 18:1-11).
2. Bema Seat
   Located in the Agora, the Bema Seat is the tribunal where Paul stood before Gallio, the Roman proconsul, during a public hearing (Acts 18:12-17). It serves as a powerful reminder of Paul’s boldness in proclaiming the Gospel despite opposition.
3. Temple of Apollo
   The ruins of this temple highlight Corinth’s pagan culture and the challenges faced by the early Christians in a city known for its wealth, immorality, and idolatry. Paul addressed these issues directly in his letters to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Island of Crete, Greece

Biblical Significance of Crete:

New Testament Perspective:
Crete is notably mentioned in Paul’s letter to Titus, where he instructs him to “appoint elders in every town” (Titus 1:5). Paul had visited the island during his travels (Acts 27:7-9), and the Cretan church is significant in the early spread of Christianity. Paul also warns about the challenges of the island’s culture, describing Cretans as “always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons” (Titus 1:12), yet emphasizing the transformative power of the Gospel for all. Crete represents a place where the church was to be established amidst a difficult cultural context.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Crete:

1. Heraklion Archaeological Museum
   While not directly mentioned in the Bible, this museum houses artifacts from ancient Crete that offer a glimpse into the culture of the island during the time of the Apostle Paul. The museum helps set the historical context for Paul’s visit to Crete and his letter to Titus.
2. Gortyn Archaeological Site
   Gortyn was a major Roman city on Crete where Paul likely traveled. It is known for its inscriptions and Roman ruins, highlighting the influence of Roman law and governance during Paul’s ministry in Crete (Titus 1:5).
3. The Monastery of Saint Titus
   Located near Heraklion, this monastery is dedicated to Titus, Paul’s companion and the first bishop of Crete. Paul wrote his letter to Titus, offering instructions for church organization and Christian living on the island (Titus 1:5).

Rome (Vatican) , Italy

Biblical Significance of Rome:

New Testament Perspective:
Rome is a pivotal city in the New Testament, as it became the center of Christianity after the apostles’ missionary work. Paul traveled to Rome to appeal to Caesar, where he was imprisoned and continued to spread the Gospel (Acts 28:16-31). He wrote letters to the Romans, providing deep theological insight into salvation and Christian living (Romans 1-16).

Rome’s significance is also reflected in the martyrdom of both Peter and Paul, whose deaths marked the city as a focal point of early Christian history. Rome serves as a powerful symbol of God’s sovereignty in advancing the Gospel despite opposition.

Three Significant Areas to Visit in Rome:

1. St. Peter’s Basilica
   As the largest church in Christendom, St. Peter’s Basilica is built over the believed burial site of the Apostle Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples. According to tradition, Peter was martyred in Rome, and his tomb remains a symbol of the Church’s apostolic foundation (Matthew 16:18).
2. Colosseum
   The Colosseum is closely tied to the early Christian martyrs who were persecuted in Rome. While Paul’s death is not specifically recorded here, the Colosseum’s role in Christian history as a site of martyrdom highlights the immense challenges faced by the early Church. Paul’s own martyrdom is traditionally thought to have occurred in Rome (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
3. Roman Forum
   The Roman Forum served as the center of Roman political, legal, and social life. Paul’s eventual imprisonment and trial before Caesar likely took place here (Acts 28:16-31). The Forum is a place to reflect on the Apostle Paul’s bold witness for Christ in the heart of the Roman Empire.

In Christ,

Cosette