Brief Description:
The site of the self-immolation of approximately a thousand Jewish patriots in the face of a large Roman army, Masada is a symbol of the ancient kingdom of Israel. Built as a palace complex and place of refuge by Herod the Great, King of Judaea (reigned 37-4 BC), Masada’s extensive remains survive on the summit of this seemingly impregnable fortress, set in a rugged natural landscape of great beauty. The siege works of the Roman army and other related sites lie unexcavated at the base of the rock.

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Committee