The initial Abraham Path cultural route begins at the ancient arch in the center of Harran, in the ruins of the old Mesopotamian city, where Judaism, Christianity and Islam concur that Abraham heard the call of God to go forth. The route proceeds through scores of spectacular historical and cultural sites in the Middle East, culminating in Al-Khalil/Hebron at the Tomb of the Patriarchs where Abraham is buried…a total of approximately 1,200 kilometers. As with other well-known cultural routes, travelers may choose to travel part or all of the route, and may do so on foot, by animal transportation, by car, bus, or bike, or some combination. It is anticipated that other parts of the Abraham Path could be opened in the future in Iraq, Egypt, and for Muslims, from Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

HOW WILL THE PATH WORK?

The Abraham Path will be open to all. Some of the many ways in which it will be used include the following:

Walkers

Some people will walk the full length of this route, which would take about 10 weeks. Others will walk a shorter section. These hikers will be supported by maps, waymarking, and by a guidebook that provides practical, historical, and cultural information about the route. Walkers will stay in hotels, hostels, campsites, and perhaps homes in towns and villages along the way. Much of this infrastructure already exists. More will develop in response to demand. Where necessary, the Abraham Path Initiative will work with local communities to support the creation of accommodation for travelers.

Travelers

The Abraham Path is not just a trail for walkers. Many more will use the path as an itinerary of outstanding sites that can be visited by bus, car, or bike. The Abraham Path Initiative is already developing an international network of tour operators which will offer a range of itineraries along the path. Some of these tours will have a religious focus; others will be based around nature and hiking, or have a more secular theme of history and culture. Organized tours will help to publicize the path, to bring immediate economic benefits to communities along the way, and to establish the idea of a safe and beautiful trail that can be followed by independent travelers.

Virtual and worldwide participants

The story of Abraham and the ongoing creation of this Path is already inspiring media coverage around the world. As the Path develops, this story will be told and retold through newspaper articles, television reports, documentaries, films, books and websites - highlighting the cultural heritage and hospitality of this region, generating a positive news story from the heart of the Middle East, and extending the reach of this initiative to a worldwide audience of millions. These people may be inspired to travel the Abraham Path or to join in one of the local ‘Abraham Walks’ that are now being organized in towns and cities across Europe and the Americas.