About Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine
On the slopes of the Horns of Hattin, west of the Sea of Galilee, stands the shrine the Druze revere as the tomb of the prophet Shu'ayb, identified with Jethro, father-in-law of Moses. For the Druze community it is the most important religious site, and the domed complex serves as the seat of their spiritual leadership in Israel. The Druze faith emerged in the eleventh century and keeps its inner teachings for initiates.
Every April the Ziyarat al-Nabi Shu'ayb draws thousands of Druze for several days of prayer, reunions and celebrations, and the community's religious leaders gather here. Inside, pilgrims touch a stone believed to bear the prophet's footprint. Visitors are welcome outside religious services when modestly dressed. The setting overlooks the site of the 1187 Battle of Hattin and the plains toward the lake. Visitors often receive warm hospitality from Druze hosts.
What to see
- Tomb chamber of Nabi Shu'ayb
- Stone footprint relic
- Druze flags of five colors
- Views over the Horns of Hattin
- April pilgrimage gatherings
Visiting Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine: practical guide
- Best time
- April for the pilgrimage, or spring and autumn
- Hours
- Usually open daily; check locally
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Long sleeves and long trousers or skirts; remove shoes inside
- Nearest airport
- Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), 130 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Follow guidance from Druze hosts on where visitors may go
- Avoid photography of religious elders without permission
- Combine with Druze villages on Mount Carmel
Festivals and special days
- Ziyarat al-Nabi Shu'ayb in late April
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Druze tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Dress modestly when visiting Druze villages and shrines.
- Do not press people for details about their religious beliefs, which are kept private.
- Ask permission before photographing religious elders.
- Remove shoes before entering shrines.
- Accept offers of coffee or food graciously, as hospitality is valued.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine?
Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine is in Hittin, Northern District, Israel, Asia. GPS coordinates: 32.8047, 35.4592. The nearest airport is Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), 130 km.
What is the best time to visit Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine?
April for the pilgrimage, or spring and autumn
Is there an entry fee for Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine?
Free Opening hours: Usually open daily; check locally
What should I wear when visiting Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine?
Long sleeves and long trousers or skirts; remove shoes inside
Which religion is Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine sacred to?
Nabi Shu'ayb Shrine is sacred to Druze. Active place of worship.
