The answer is: Jericho

Luke 10 v 30

In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus sets the stage by referencing the road between Jerusalem and Jericho. A notorious path in the ancient world, this upward trek was a steep and dangerous descent. Spanning roughly 17 miles, it would have taken travelers through rocky terrain and into solitude—making it a prime spot for bandits and mishaps. Adding to the excitement, the landscape itself was home to remarkable flora and fauna, with aspects that would intrigue anyone wandering through the wild.

Jerusalem was revered as a sacred place, hailed for its temples and cultural richness, representing the holiness and peace. Meanwhile, Jericho was called "the city of palms," known for its lush palm trees and agriculture. Interestingly, it was one of the oldest inhabited cities on the planet, buzzing with history long before Jesus walked the earth.

The interaction between the rich cultural backdrop of Jerusalem and the agricultural life of Jericho symbolizes the diverse lives intertwined within the Jewish community. This context allows us to appreciate that the characters within the parable—the priest, the Levite, and the Samaritan—reflect the different societal classes and attitudes toward compassion, highlighting a deeper moral urgency.

Lastly, remember that the idea of a "Good Samaritan" had a provocative spin in that era, as Samaritans were often looked down upon. In choosing a Samaritan as the hero of the story, Jesus challenged conventional norms about who is deserving of kindness—reminding everyone that love transcends social divisions.