Day 15 - Syrian Border, De Karina and Katzrin (Netzach)
We awoke this morning at the usual early 7am. With breakfast and prayers happily completed we began our journey to...the Golan heights. The view from this place was breath taking. Personally I found the fact that we could look over and see Syria, another country just over a road (which was something I would never experience in Australia) absolutely astonishing. Next we went to OZ 77 where we watched a short film about Avigdor Kahalani. We learnt of his tremendous bravery and strength as we were able to understand in a practical military context what occured in the Golan heights during the Yom Kippur war. Next we could all feel our stomachs rumbling with excitement as we approached the Da Karina chocolate factory. I think I speak for everyone when I say the bus ride to the factory was filled with a awesome buzz and anticipation. As we walked in, the smell flooded us with happiness while the guide took us into the room for a short film about what it is which is so special about this specialist Jewish owned chocolate boutique. As we were guided through the center we were shown how the chocolate is managed and turned into impressive creations before getting to test our own chocolatier skills and create some of our own.
After each of us was able to unleash our inner chocolate master we went to a nearby park for lunch. Lunch was amazing and within this park was an old military tank which some of us even climbed into. After a mincha service we went for a short walk around where we had lunch and another tank was visible. When we were told more of the story of the area it was great as we could physically touch history which I really appreciated. Also on a side note there was a really cute dog that I just wanted to mention.
Finally we went to the ancient city of Katzrin, where we were taken through the ancient town and given a taste of life at that time as a wealthy olive press owner. We were taught all about the Talmudic period which accrued in this area and we were truly able to understand life during history through this unique rebuilt ancient city. We were taken on a tour back in time though Noga's ancient town and shown how life used to be back then living (with her son), how she would work, and how she would treat guests. After being spring boarded back into reality we finally went into her real home and discussed what it means to be living in the modern day Katzrin.
Altogether I really enjoyed today, in fact I think it was one of my favourite days because it beautifully encompassed history, learning the famous past of these areas and enjoying the safety and fun of the present facilities in Katzrin.
Emily
