The Basilica of the Annunciation: The current church was constructed over a grotto where supposedly the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive a son, Jesus. Mary supposedly lived there. The Basilica of the Annunciation is the largest church in the Middle East. Consecrated in the 1960’s. The first church built on this spot was in the 4th Century c.e. by Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine. Beautiful main upper church with a striking cupola – ribs representing an upside down lily – symbol of Mary’s purity.

Nazareth has the largest Arab community (80,000) outside of Jerusalem –it’s 60% Muslim and the rest Christian.