Kabbalah in Tzfat
Tzfat developed the reputation as the "City of Kabbalah" during the Middle Ages when Jews who fled the Spanish Inquisition returned to the Land of Israel. Many were attracted to the Tzfat area because in this area, Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai began to learn and teach the Kabbalah which was taught to him by God in the 1st century A.D.Rabbi Shimon is buried on Mt. Meron, across the valley from Tzfat. Kabbalists have studied in Tzfat ever since.
Several resources for authentic Kabbalah exist in Tzfat today for people with any type of backgrounds, from beginning to advanced.
Yedida Cohen -- writer and translator of Rabbi Ashlag's works. Author of several scholarly works on Kabbalah. In addition to her books and audio talks, Yedida arranges private lessons for people over the internet. nehora@actcom.co.il (052)698-5931
Ascent Institute -- Hostel and learning center. Extensive library and rabbis who will speak to visitors and help them find resources that provide the information that they're looking for. Daily classes. (04)6971407
International Center of Tzfat Kabbalah -- 15-minute video which gives an overview of Kabbalah. Classes, workshops, Kabbalah tours of Tzfat.
Dovid Friedman -- Tzfat Artist. Combines study of Kabbalah with paintings. Explanations and classes.
Avraham Lowenthal -- Tzfat Artists. Expresses his study of Kabbalah in his art. Seminars and classes.