Masada is a breathtaking site of natural beauty overlooking the Dead Sea, characterized by its rugged terrain. This natural fortress was transformed by the Judaean king Herod the Great, who constructed a lavish palace complex in classical Roman style atop its plateau.

Masada holds significant archaeological value, with the remains of Herod's palaces standing as remarkably well-preserved examples of Roman architecture. The untouched siegeworks are considered the finest and most complete in the Roman world.

The Masada complex, especially the "hanging" palace with its three terraces, showcases opulent architectural design, meticulously engineered and constructed under extreme conditions. Situated on the northern face of this dramatic mountain, the palace includes a unique assembly of classical Roman Imperial buildings. Notably, the sophisticated water system, which collected run-off from a single day’s rain, could sustain life for a thousand people for two to three years, transforming the barren, arid hilltop into a luxurious royal retreat.