Visiting Israel: Jerusalem

Jerusalem is such an important city to so many people and religions that it is hard to describe its appeal completely in just words. Jerusalem was established as the spiritual and physical capital city of Israel more than three thousand years ago by King David, but today it still remains a busy and bustling city of industry, culture, architecture, and both religious and historic significance.

The Old City is surrounded by walls built in the 1500s by Ottoman Turks. It is divided into four different quarters: Muslim, Christian, Armenian, and Jewish. While the four quarters share the Old City equally, it is predominately Arabic in its food, language, customs, and art. There are seven major gates leading into the Old City and when inside the walled confines you will find an endless labyrinth of confusing, yet fascinating alleys and paths.

Some of the most important religious and historic attractions are located inside or around the Old City. Here you will find the Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall, Al Aqsa Mosque, Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the Mount of Olives. You can join one of the organized walking tours that begin at the Jaffa Gate where you can choose to visit the Jewish Quarters, the Islamic shrines, or the Christian sites of interest.

West Jerusalem, or New City, is the most modern and populated area of the city. This area is filled with business districts, residential communities, high-rise hotels, fancy restaurants, college campuses, and museums. The downtown area near Ben-Yehuda Street is usually bustling with tourists looking for souvenirs and a quick bite to eat.