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Ancient fortress , Ashdod Beach While the beaches in Tel Aviv are perhaps the most famous , the coastline in Israel in fact runs down a substantial part of the country . And the beach in Ashdod , half an hour ’ s drive south of Tel Aviv , even boasts its very own fortress .
The ruins of the ancient fortress at Ashdod Yam . Photo by Michael Stein via Shutterstock . com To Table of Contents
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First built by Arab rulers in the seventh century , the fortress was used in later centuries to unsuccessfully defend the Holy Land from the Crusaders , who after taking over the area also took ownership of the stronghold . Nowadays , the fortress remains strike a magnificent picture against an otherwise empty strip of sand , even leading couples to choose the venue to tie the knot in small , corona-era wedding ceremonies .
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The rooftop of the Austrian Hospice in Jerusalem ’ s Old city offers magnificent views . Photo by Thomas Marchhart via Shutterstock . com
Austrian Hospice rooftop , Jerusalem The Old City of Jerusalem has many rooftops from which to take in the breathtaking views , with one of the best – and relatively accessible – ones belonging to the Austrian Hospice . Opened in 1863 , the building first served as the Austrian Catholic Church ’ s pilgrim hostel before turning into a military convalescent home during World War I , an internment camp during World War II , a hospital and again a present-day hostel with its very own Viennese coffeeshop .
While the coffeeshop is famous for its hot chocolate and apple strudel , those looking for a different experience would do well to saunter up the staircase to the roof , from which they can comfortably view the very heart of the Old City .
The Russian Orthodox Saint Peter ’ s Church looms over southern Tel Aviv . Photo by Eyal Asaf
Saint Peter ’ s Church , Tel Aviv The bright pink Russian Orthodox Saint Peter ’ s Church towering over treetops makes an unusual addition to an otherwise rather nondescript residential area of southern Tel Aviv . Built in the 19th century , the complex includes both a church and a monastery and is open to the public for only a short time each week , very much adding to its secretive status . Enjoyed mostly by locals , the complex and the surrounding park are a breath of fresh air in the metropolitan area .