The magical and wonderous ancient and holy city of Jerusalem, precious to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam alike. A journey through a ‘time tunnel’ enriched with archaeological sites, synagogues, monasteries, churches, mosques, and museums. It is a revelation, a harmony between old and new, different cultures, religions, and architecture. It is a truly exciting and inspirational experience.
Jerusalem is a city of overwhelming emotions, rich with religious, spiritual, and cultural heritage. Amongst fascinating historic and archeological sites, there are amazingly modern tourist attractions for all lovers of culture, the arts, theater and music, architecture, and gastronomic delights.
At Jerusalem’s heart is the Old City, which is surrounded by a wall and divided into four quarters – Jewish, Armenian, Christian, and Muslim. Inside the walls are important holy sites of the three major religions, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The Christian quarter alone houses some 40 religious buildings (churches, monasteries and pilgrims’ hostels). One of the most prominent and important sites in the Christian quarter is the Via Dolorosa, the “Way of Sorrows,” Jesus’ final path, the 14 stations of the cross, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Several of the most important Christian relics are housed in this church, including the anointing stone (on which Jesus’ body was laid before his burial) and Jesus’ grave.
For the Jews, the Western Wall is the holiest of sites since it is a remnant of the Holy Temple which once stood there. Prayers are offered here and notes containing heartfelt wishes are wedged between its crevices.
It is said in Islam that Muhammad went on a celestial journey from the spot where the ruins of the Jewish temples were and where the Al Aqsa Mosque erected.
Since Jerusalem is a city that has become home to people from many different faiths, traditions, and ethnic groups, the city’s culinary culture offers something for everyone. Alongside Bohemian gourmet restaurants, you will find eateries where the food is cooked slowly over ancient stoves, a wide range of coffee shops, ethnic restaurants, fast food stands, and bars that come to life in the evening hours.
