Tiberias is the site of one of the world’s earliest known hot mineral springs. One legend maintains that the springs were formed in the great biblical flood when the earth’s insides boiled. Another legend holds that the water was heated by demons under the orders of King Solomon, who then made the demons deaf so that they would never hear of his death and desert their duties. Apparently, they still haven’t heard; visitors come to the warm flowing waters for therapy. You can lie in the slimy but incredibly relaxing pools, cleansing body and wallet for NIS28 (Sat. NIS31). A massage is NIS5O (Sat. N1S57), while a mineral bath is NIS46 (Sat. NIS50). The springs are 3km south of town on the coastal road; walk or catch bus #5 from the front of the central bus station or from HaGalil St. The older building, Tiberias Hot Springs, has single-sex baths with hotter therapeutic waters. (Open Sun.-Thurs. 7am4:30pm, Fri. 7am-l:30pm.)The newer building, Tiberias Hot Springs Spa (tel. 79 19 67), serves those seeking more moderate rejuvenation. (Open Sun.-Thurs. 8am-8pm, Fri. 8am-6pm, Sat. 8:30am-8pm.)

Across the street are ruins of the Hammat Synagogues, six ancient buildings constructed one on top of another. The jewel of the excavations is a mosaic floor that was part of three separate synagogues. The four upper synagogues were used in the 6th-8th centuries AD. The small Lehmann museum displays the history of hot springs in Tiberias. Enter the museum and walk out the back door to reach the ancient synagogues. (Site open Sun.-Thurs. 8am-5pm, Fri. 8am-4pm. Admission NIS5, students NIS3-)