"woman fled into the desert"

Revelation 12:6 The woman fled into the desert to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days.

The Serpent (devil) was dealt the deadly blow to the head when Jesus died on the cross. Even the piercings of his hands and feet represent the way a serpent kills. The woman could represent Israel the nation. She escapes under God's protection to her place of origin. Hated by all her enemies only God keeps her safe.

Genesis 3:15 And I will put enmity
       between you and the woman,
       and between your offspring (seed) and hers;
       he will crush (strike) your head,
       and you will strike his heel."