The ancient city of Safed is considered one of the “Four Holy Cities of Judaism,” because it was here in the 16th and 17th century where the Kabbalah – mystical Judaism – developed. After the expulsion of the Jews from Spain, the Ottoman Empire opened its arms to Jewish refugees, many of whom found their way to Safed.
The Old City of Safed has changed little in the recent centuries, its ancient lanes leading to several small and medium-sized historic synagogues - each more beautiful than the next. Safed’s altitude (3,000 feet, highest in Israel) and crystal clear light have made it a haven for artists, the old town is full of galleries, studios and artists painting on easels.