Route 60, commonly known as the ‘Biblical Highway,’ has been officially designated by the Israeli government as such. This historic route, stretching from Nazareth in the north to Beersheba in the south, traverses key locations with deep historical and religious roots.
The initiative to name Route 60 ‘Biblical Highway’ aims to create an experience akin to that of the famous Route 66 in the U.S. The road itself runs along Israel’s central mountain range and has been in existence for over 4,000 years. Beginning in Abraham’s city of Beersheba, the highway follows the journey through significant biblical events and sites.
“You would better understand who the Jewish people are, the special relationship God established with them for the benefit of all mankind,” said David Parsons of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem.
The route proceeds from Beersheba to Hebron, home of the Cave of the Patriarchs. This site, linked to biblical patriarchs and matriarchs, features a monumental structure built by King Herod 2,000 years ago.
The route also covers Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. Here, visitors can discover the site tied to the Book of Ruth and many other key biblical narratives. As the highway continues to Jerusalem, travelers will encounter Mount Moriah, the location of the First and Second Temples.
Further north, the highway reaches Bet El, noted for Jacob’s prophetic dream. It closely follows the biblical arc through Shiloh and Shechem, rich in historic significance, before arriving at Nazareth, recognized as the hometown of Jesus.
Yishai Fleisher, the international spokesman for the Jewish community of Hebron, has played a significant role in advocating for this initiative. He likens Route 60 to other renowned roads around the world cherished for their cultural and historical significance.
“It has educational, heritage, and tourism value,” Fleisher stated.
Apart from celebrating historical narratives, the renaming of Route 60 plays a strategic role amid efforts from Palestinian authorities to reinterpret Jewish historical sites. Fleisher contends that preserving the biblical heritage through the route’s designated name strengthens Israel’s historical claims.
Ze’ev Orenstein from the City of David highlights that the ‘Biblical Highway’ will provide people the chance to connect with their faith and heritage by exploring the actual geography of biblical history.
The Israeli Ministry of Tourism plans to include the ‘Biblical Highway’ in marketing materials, setting up visitor centers, observation points, and providing multilingual signs to enhance the experience for tourists and locals alike.