A Journey Through Al-Muna Gardens

As I embarked on the Druze Culinary and History Tour, I was immediately drawn into the lush embrace of Al-Muna Gardens. This was not just a garden; it was a living testament to the love and dedication of Naji Abbas, who crafted this verdant paradise in honor of his parents. The garden, which has been recognized globally, is a reflection of the Druze community’s deep connection to the land and their cultural heritage.

Walking through the garden, I felt a profound sense of peace and spirituality. The stories shared by our guide, Simon, about Naji’s father and his support for the IDF in 1948, painted a vivid picture of the resilience and unity within the Druze community. It was a reminder of the interconnectedness of history, culture, and faith that I often explore in my travels.

The garden was a sensory delight, with the fragrance of blooming flowers and the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze. It was a place where nature and spirituality intertwined, offering a moment of reflection and gratitude for the beauty of creation.

Culinary Delights in Julis

Our journey continued to the heart of Julis, where we were welcomed into a kosher Druze restaurant run by Basma Henno. The restaurant, named after her son Noor, was a haven of warmth and hospitality. As we sat down to brunch, the table was adorned with an array of Galilean Druze salads, eggs, cheeses, olives, and falafel, all served with freshly baked Druze pita.

The meal was a celebration of local produce and traditional flavors, each dish telling a story of the land and its people. The fragrant black coffee that concluded our meal was a perfect companion to the rich tapestry of tastes we had just experienced.

Basma’s story, as shared by Simon, was one of strength and resilience. As a war widow, she had built this restaurant as a tribute to her son and as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Druze community. Her story resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and to preserve cultural heritage.

The Ancient Echoes of Peki’in

Our final destination was the ancient town of Peki’in, a place steeped in history and spiritual significance. As we explored the old synagogue and the cave of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, I was struck by the layers of history that unfolded before us.

The synagogue, with its ancient plaques, was a poignant reminder of the Jewish community that once thrived here. Simon’s narration brought to life the stories of those who fled Jerusalem after the destruction of the Second Temple, seeking refuge in this serene town.

The cave of Rabbi Shimon, where he and his son hid from the Romans, was a place of reflection and reverence. It was a reminder of the enduring spirit of faith and the sacrifices made in its name. As I stood in the cave, I felt a deep connection to the spiritual journeys that have shaped this land and its people.

This tour was more than just a culinary and historical exploration; it was a pilgrimage of the soul, a journey that enriched my understanding of the Druze community and their place in the tapestry of the Middle East. I left with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed sense of wonder for the spiritual connections that bind us all.