In the Israeli desert overlooking the Dead Sea sits Masada (מצדה), an ancient ruined city atop a tall plateau. More than 2,000 years old, the settlement's significant fortifications were erected between 37 and 31 BCE.
In 72 CE, Jewish rebels that had taken control of the city several years prior came under siege by the Roman army. Over the course of a year the Romans bombarded Masada while building a ramp up the side of the plateau, eventually overcoming the city's defenses.
The ramp and the army's fortifications remain to this day, and tourists can either walk up the narrow snaking foot path or take a gondola to the top. Explore more photos by clicking the blue location link above.
Photo by @learan.