Masada, Southern Israel 1978

Masada is a fort located in the Judaean desert, overlooking the Dead Sea and Jordan. It is on top of a plateau rock formation, and is accesible by cable car.

Masada became under siege during the first Jewish-Roman War, which led to the 'suicide' of all its Jewish Zeolots inhabitants when they were of verge of defeat. Neverthless, Judaism strongly discourages suicide, therefore lots were taken and they slain each other in turn.

It later became a palace for Herod, who used it as a refuge for himself in case of a revolt.

The site was excavated in the 60's and had remained untouched by humans for nearly 2000 years, due to its remoteness.

Masada has also become a symbol of Jewish determination, and new recruits to the Israeli army are sworn in at Masada and proclaim "Never again shall Masada fall".