Hike Up Masada
While many tours to Israel visit Masada, only some offer to hike up to this magnificent plateau. Have you done any trekking in the desert? Then you should consider this challenge and conquer Masada on foot!
What is Masada?
Masada is an ancient fortress located on a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea in Israel. It is one of the most significant archaeological and historical sites in the country due to its dramatic history and symbolic meaning.
This unique fortress on a desert plateau was built by Herod the Great, king of Judea, between 37 and 31 BCE. Herod wanted it to be both a palace complex and a military stronghold. Already during his life, Masada became famous for its grandeur. Nevertheless, sadly, the name Masada went down in history not for its beauty but for its tragic fall.
Jews, Romans, and the Siege
The most famous episode associated with Masada is the siege by Roman forces in 73–74 CE, during the First Jewish–Roman War (also called the Great Revolt).
After the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE, a group of Jewish Zealots fled to Masada. Around 960 men, women, and children are believed to have taken refuge there.
The Romans, led by Lucius Flavius Silva, laid siege to the fortress. After months of siege, the Romans breached the walls using a massive ramp. According to the ancient historian Josephus, it was at that point when the defenders committed mass suicide rather than be captured or enslaved.
Masada has become a symbol of Jewish heroism and resistance. The phrase “Masada shall not fall again” is used to express national determination in Israel, particularly by the Israeli military.
“Masada shall not fall again”
The now famous phrase “Masada shall not fall again” (Hebrew: “Masada shelo tipol shuv”) carries deep symbolic meaning in modern Israeli society. In the context of national identity, it symbolizes resilience in the face of persecution.
At its heart, the phrase means: “Never again will the Jewish people be helpless or defenseless in the face of existential threat.”
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) used to hold swearing-in ceremonies at Masada, where soldiers would declare: “Masada shall not fall again.” With the rise of antisemitism worldwide, it is no surprise that Masada remains of great importance to this day, both physically and symbolically.
It is also the reason why many choose to hike up Masada today – to put in the effort. We break a sweat to prove something important: that we are strong enough to overcome.
“Masada shall not fall again” expresses a national vow that Israel will remain strong, independent, and capable of defending itself. We stand strong so that tragedies like the fall of Masada, or the destruction of the Second Temple, or even the Holocaust will never happen again.
Archaeological Importance
Today, Masada is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site includes Herod’s palaces, storehouses, cisterns, bathhouses, and synagogue ruins.
“For my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that can hold no water.” Jeremiah 2:13
The Northern Palace is an architectural marvel built on the edge of a cliff, showcasing Herod’s luxury and engineering skill. Huge storerooms and an ingenious system of cisterns and aqueducts—essential for surviving in the desert—show advanced planning and engineering.
At the same time, the Roman siege of Masada (73–74 CE) is among the best-documented and best-preserved examples of Roman military tactics. The massive earthen ramp built to breach the fortress is still visible today.
Will You Hike Up Masada with Us?
The powerful Masada narrative of heroism and resistance remains very much alive today. In the 20th century, especially after the Holocaust and the founding of the State of Israel in 1948, hiking up Masada is a call for strength and self-determination.
Hiking Masada is a rewarding and memorable experience, offering breathtaking views, and rich history. Here’s what you should know to make the most of it.
There are two hikes you can consider. The Snake Path on the eastern side is about 2km (1.2 miles) long. It is rather steep at times and there is no shade, so make sure you bring a hat. The route usually takes an hour to hour and half to complete, depending on your fitness level. Start early to avoid the heat of the day – that’s why we recommend a sunrise hike at around 5am!
The Roman Ramp hike on the western side is much more family friendly. It is shorter and takes about half an hour to complete. The gentler incline and wider path make it accessible even to those with limited mobility. You can access the route from the road to Arad.
For either hike, don’t forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
Am Israel Chai – People of Israel Live!
“Masada shall not fall again” is more than a historical reference — it is a moral and existential commitment in Israeli society to ensure that the Jewish people never again face annihilation without the means to resist. It’s a symbol of never surrendering, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Interested in coming to visit? Would you like to hike up Masada?
Check out firmisrael.org/start-planning-your-trip-to-israel/