15 things not to miss in Jerusalem

The Fifteen Sites You Should Not Miss While In Jerusalem

The first time I set foot in Jerusalem, I fell in love with the city. There are three sections, West Jerusalem, East Jerusalem and The Old City. The Old City is encased by ancient walls, and the grounds are accessed by seven gateways. Just outside The Old City are magnificent restaurants and shops. The hub of the Arabic community is in East Jerusalem, and the city offers enchanting markets. There are fifteen sights you must see when you take a vacation to Jerusalem.

1. The Old City

The Old City was built in 1001 B.C. by King David, and encompasses for separate areas, the Jewish Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Muslim Quarter and the Armenian Quarter. Each quarter is different with shops, religious sites, and food reflecting the heritage.

The Old City is eclectic with ancient stone plazas, winding alleyways and every culture brings something sensational to the area. The Old City is accessible through the following gates, Damascus Gate, Zion Gate, Herod’s Gate, the New Gate, Dung Gate, Lions’ Gate and Jaffa Gate. Each gate represents a significant aspect of the history of Jerusalem. You can find a lovely accommodation in Jerusalem such as Leonardo hotel Jerusalem.

2. The Western Wall

You may hear the Western Wall called the Kotel or the Wailing Wall, and this wall is historically significant for the Jews. The wall was built during the first century B.C. when the second temple was renovated by King Herod.

People of all faiths come to this holy site to pray, then they write their wishes on a piece of paper, then insert it into cracks within the stone so G-d can answer them. The most prominent and famous section of the wall has been divided into two areas, one for men and one for women. I recommend staying in one of the Bed and breakfast in Jerusalem, and Above the Spring is nice.

3. The Israel Museum

No trip to Jerusalem is complete without a trip to the Israel Museum. The museum was founded in 1965, and is one of the leading archeology and art museums in the world, and the biggest cultural institution in the country. This fascinating museum covers twenty acres, and contains approximately 500,000 artifacts ranging from ancient to contemporary sculpture. The legendary dead sea scrolls are housed here, and consists of 972 texts. These texts are thought to have been written between 70 and 150 B.C. They are displayed with other significant historical texts underground in the Shrine of the Books, and covered by a wide structure with a domelike appearance. Consider the cheap hotels in Jerusalem including the City Center Hotel Jerusalem.

4. Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock

Temple Mount is a holy site for Muslims and Jews. The Jews believe this is where the earth’s Divine Presence rests, and where the dust used by G-d for Adam’s creation originated. The Muslim’s believe this is where Muhammad ascended to heaven. The most notable feature is Muslim, and is called The Dome of the Rock.

The structure has a golden top, and it is thought Muhammad and Gabriel prayed together here. The site is believed to be where Muhammad ascended. The Al Aqsa Mosque is close by, was constructed in 720 A.D. and is exquisite. There is additionally a nice B&B in Jerusalem called the Rosary Sister Guest House Ein Karem in the area.

5. The Mount of Olives

This 2.900-foot mountain derives its name from the olive groves once covering the slopes. This has been the primary burial ground for Jerusalem for over 3,000 years, and notable biblical figures including Absalom and Zechariah were laid to rest here. Numerous religious sites are located on the slopes including the Dome of the Ascension. This is where Jesus left his last footprint upon the globe prior to ascending into heaven. The prayers of Jesus prior to his crucifixion were made at the Garden of Gethsemane, and 1,000-year-old olive trees are in the area. The views overlooking the Temple Mount and Jerusalem and spectacular, and I found the tours incredibly interesting. For an excellent accommodation in Jerusalem, try the Crowne Hotel Plaza Jerusalem.

6. The Mahane Yehuda

The Mahane Yehuda is in West Jerusalem, between the Yafo and Agripas streets. This represents Israel’s modern and authentic life. This is a vibrant marketplace with everything available from souvenirs to aromatic spices. The sound of over 250 merchants haggling combined with the smell of freshly baked falafel is amazing.

The market is a little less crowded on Fridays since the residents of Jerusalem are getting ready for the Sabbath. There is a drink called sukra, made from the orchid, and fresh pomegranate juice that are both delicious. There is no charge to explore this sensational marketplace, and you may want to try the National Hotel as one of the cheap hotels in Jerusalem.

7. The Yad Vashem

The Yad Vashem is in the Mount Herzl neighborhood, and has the biggest collection of information in the world regarding the Holocaust. The tragic events are detailed with artwork and artifacts in the Museum of Holocaust Art and the Holocaust History Museum, and the two museums encompass 45 acres. The memorials are unique and include the Children’s Memorial and the Hall of Names in commemoration of the victims of the holocaust. The design is both impressive and serene, and you will see the Holocaust in a new light. There is a charming Bed and breakfast in Jerusalem nearby called the Jerusalem Villa.

8. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

According to belief, The Church of the Holy Sepulchre stands directly above the tomb of Jesus Christ. The world considers this one of the most holy of Christian sites. The church was built by the Emperor Constantine as a place of worship in 326 A.D. The church has been destroyed twice since it was originally constructed. One was in 614 A.D by the Persians, and the second in 1009 by the Egyptians.

The current Church of the Holy Sepulchre is attributed to the 12th-century Crusaders, and the only word for this church is breathtaking. Since the main attraction is the tomb of Jesus, there are usually long lines. The lines are definitely worth seeing the beauty and grace of this church. The church is in the Old City’s Christian quarter, admission is free, and visitors are always welcome. I do highly recommend dressing modestly. While in the area, you may want to stay at a B&B in Jerusalem, and Rich’s Place is lovely.

9. The City of David and Hezekiah’s Tunnel

The City of David was founded by King David over 3,000 years ago. This is now both a functioning residential neighborhood and a major archeological site in the Old City. You can explore all the remains of the ancient city including the First and Second Temples. There is a level above ground, and another one below. Right outside the Dung Gate for the Jewish Quarter’s is a visitor’s center. They offer exceptional guided tours and information r

egarding the City of David. The Hezekiah’s Tunnel is one of the city’s major highlights, and according to the Bible was the primary source of water for ancient Jerusalem. You can see one of the most amazing feats of ancient engineering called the ancient waterway, but you need to wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

10. The Garden Tomb

Despite the shrine in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, most people believe the burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ occurred in the Garden Tomb. The tomb is a short and lovely walk from the Damascus Gate of the Old City. The ruins in the lush gardens are believed to be from the sepulcher of Joseph of Arimathea.

The garden is incredibly serene, peaceful and a spiritual and meaningful experience. The tours are magnificent, and there is no charge. Enlightening and educational pamphlets and admission are also free.

11. The Tower of David Museum

The Tower of David Museum is located inside the medieval Tower of David. The name of the tower is misleading because it did not concern King David. The original purpose of the tower was to defend Jerusalem. Currently, the details of the history of Jerusalem are contained in an extremely comprehensive museum. When you walk throughout the citadel, your will see miniature models and informative panels that depict the different points of Jerusalem’s existence.

The nighttime light show is a must see, is exceptionally well done, and tells the history and story of the city. The show is in the Tour of David’s courtyard, the perfect location, and watching it at night is exquisite. The Tower of David Museum is on the Old City’s western edge and it is a good idea to check their website since the schedule for the lightshow varies according to the season and the day.

12. Via Dolorosa

The translation for Via Dolorosa is way of sorrows, and it is on the Temple Mount’s northwest corner. This is the passageway that led Jesus to Golgotha where it is believed his crucifixion took place. He began the passageway from his sentencing at Pontius Pilate. According to the hymns of the Christians, this road is depicted as lined with olive trees and very quiet. In modern times, the Via Dolorosa can feel noisy and crowded because it is filled with souvenir shops and ancient stone buildings. The notable sites passed by Jesus are marked, and led to by these streets. This includes the where Jesus was sentenced at the Praetorium, and where he is thought to have been laid to rest at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This is a sensational walk, but I highly recommend comfortable walking shoes. If you take a tour, the guides are incredibly knowledgeable, and explain every station in detail. Via Dolorosa is always open, and there is no fee if you want to go exploring.

13. The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is the world’s lowest point, the salt prevents living organisms from surviving, and people will float on the surface due to the salt. Many people believe the combination of the salty water and mud have healing powers and will soothe the skin. The spectacular and unique view of the dead sea alone makes it well worth the trip.

14. The Armenian Quarter

The Armenian Quarter is in the Old City, just south of the Citadel. The quarter is tiny, and the main street is Armenian Patriarchate Road. The narrow lanes boasts both St. Mark’s Chapel and the St. James Cathedral. Armenians have played an important role in the communities of Jerusalem for centuries, and originally arrived in the 5th century. A lot more Armenians arrived towards the beginning of the 20th century after Turkey’s Armenian massacres, and during the Ottoman era. This is a tranquil and beautiful area to take a serene stroll while visiting the beautiful cathedrals.

15. The Christian Quarter

The Christian Quarter in the Old City centers around the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, runs from north of the Jaffa Gate. This charming tangle of alleyways has become a popular destination for visitors looking for souvenirs. The churches here are exquisite and you will want to do some exploring. In Omar ibn al-Khattab Square, you will find the Protestant Christ Church. There is a quirky museum with a nice café, and the document exhibits are quite interesting. In the courtyard of The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the Ethiopian Monastery. The visit to Jerusalem of the Queen of Sheba is portrayed in interesting frescoes. You can climb the bell tower in the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer for a phenomenal view. Just off Christian Quarter Street is the Church of St. John the Baptist. This is the oldest church in all of Jerusalem.

The fifteen sites I have described are all worth seeing. I hope you will take many trips to Israel because this is a beautiful country steeped in tradition, and religious history.