Masada is a site of great historical and cultural significance, located atop an isolated rock plateau in the Southern District of Israel. This ancient fortress, overlooking the Dead Sea, was built by Herod the Great between 37 and 31 BC and later became the last stronghold of the Jewish Zealots in their revolt against the Roman Empire. The dramatic siege of Masada by Roman troops ended tragically in 73 AD with the mass suicide of the 960 Sicarii rebels rather than surrender. Today, Masada is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Jewish heroism, attracting visitors from around the world.