Qumran

On the Western shore of the Dead Sea, the ruins of the Qumran Essene Community are a desolate reminder that there can be a fine line between faith and foolhardiness.

Sometimes it looked like these were the best mode of transportation to be found! The hillsides surrounding Qumran evidence cave openings, many of which ... ... held parts of the Dead Sea Scroll collection. The Qumran ruins are still being excavated, so tours through them are along ... ... well defined paths. Ritual baptismal baths are found all over the place. The Essene Community dining room. Another ritual baptismal pool. The principle cave system where the Essenes stored their scroll library. The largest of the baptismal pools to be found at Qumran. The ruins are expansive, and only a small part are opened for visitors.