Julis, the Druze Vatican

A few years ago, the stars aligned for me and I was offered the opportunity to come to Julis to manage the community center in the village.

Those were 4 wonderful years during which I learned about values and family, about honor and pride stemming from modesty and humility, and about special, extraordinarily talented and wise people with huge hearts.

Julis is one of the most important Druze villages in Israel, known as the "Druze Vatican" - a significant spiritual and religious center for the Druze community. This is where Sheikh Amin Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community for decades, lived, and where Sheikh Mowafak Tarif continues his path. Julis is also home to the memorial site of Sheikh Ali Fares, a historical figure of tremendous importance to the Druze heritage. The place carries a rich legacy of religious wisdom and ancient tradition that is carefully preserved.

I get excited to visit Julis each time anew. The village is also famous for its special cafes and restaurants, which combine traditional Druze cuisine with high-quality international culinary offerings, all in an atmosphere of warm and authentic hospitality.

Join me for a tour of the village, where we'll wander through the alleys, experience the special character and atmosphere, visit interesting places, and meet fascinating people.