Tzfat

Tzfat, also known as Safed, is a city in the Northern District of Israel, located in the Upper Galilee on a high hill overlooking the Hula Valley. It is one of the country’s four holy Jewish cities and has a long-standing association with Jewish mysticism and learning. The city’s elevated position gives it a cooler climate and distinctive views of the surrounding landscape.

Historically, Safed rose to prominence in the 16th century as a center of Kabbalah under the Safed kabbalists, including Isaac Luria (the Ari) and his pupils. This period fostered new mystical ideas and contributions to Jewish law, theology, and manuscript culture. The old city preserves several historic synagogues and medieval/early modern religious sites, such as the Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue and the Abuhav Synagogue, which reflect the city’s diverse communities and long religious traditions.

In modern times Safed developed into a cultural and artistic hub. The old city is known for its narrow lanes, artist studios, galleries, and crafts shops, and is often described as an artists’ colony. Craft traditions in glassblowing and ceramics remain part of its contemporary economy. The city is also home to higher education institutions, including the Zefat Academic College, underscoring its ongoing role in education and research in the region.

Tourism is a major economic activity, drawing visitors to its ancient synagogues, winding alleyways, and views of the Galilee landscape, as well as to nearby sites such as Meron. The city remains a focal point of Jewish spirituality, history, and Israeli culture.