Hebron

חברון

One of Judaism's holiest cities, home to the Tomb of the Patriarchs (Cave of Machpelah) where Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and their wives are believed to be buried. The ancient city is filled with biblical significance and features a historic Palestinian medina with traditional crafts and architecture.

Things to do

• Cave of Machpelah (Tomb of the Patriarchs) — Visit this sacred shrine believed to contain the tombs of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and their wives, divided into separate prayer areas for Muslim and Jewish worship.
• Hebron Old City Medina — Wander the narrow stone-paved streets of the historic Palestinian market featuring traditional architecture, spice vendors, and local crafts shops.
• Glass Blowing Workshop — Watch artisans create traditional Hebron glassware using centuries-old techniques and purchase hand-blown decorative pieces and functional items.
• Pottery Quarter — Explore workshops where potters craft traditional ceramic vessels using red clay and hand-decorating methods passed down through generations.
• Ibrahimi Mosque — Observe the Islamic architecture of this mosque built over the Cave of Machpelah, featuring stone arches and a minaret, though non-Muslim access is restricted.
• Abraham Avinu Synagogue — Tour this restored Jewish prayer space in the old city with traditional interior design, offering historical context on Hebron's Jewish heritage.

Food to try

• Maklouba — A traditional Palestinian rice dish with meat, vegetables and spices cooked in a pot and flipped onto a plate in an impressive presentation.
• Hebron Knafeh — A local sweet pastry made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and pistachios soaked in sugar syrup, a regional specialty.
• Maftoul Soup — A hearty Palestinian soup made with large pearl couscous, chickpeas, and lamb or chicken broth seasoned with cumin and coriander.
• Za'atar Flatbread — Fresh pita or taboon bread baked with a mixture of wild thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, sold warm from local bakeries.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab) — Fresh grape leaves from local vineyards rolled with seasoned rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, served warm or cold.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — Visitors should wear conservative clothing covering shoulders, knees, and chest, particularly when entering religious sites out of respect.
• Dual Jurisdiction Areas — Be aware that parts of Hebron are under Palestinian Authority control and others under Israeli control, with different entry points and restrictions for visitors.
• Greetings and Hospitality — Palestinians traditionally offer strong coffee or tea to visitors as a gesture of welcome, and declining may be considered impolite.
• Photography Sensitivity — Always ask permission before photographing people or inside religious spaces, as some areas and individuals prefer not to be photographed.