A visit to Jerusalem is about religion, culture and several thousand years of history which is most obviously seen in the old walled part of the city. Tel Aviv is only about 45 minutes away with its seaside location, and makes a good entry point into Israel – yet the feel in Jerusalem is decidedly different despite being so close geographically. People come from around the world here – a number of them religious pilgrims, reverent at seeing what are often among the most important sites to their particular region, whether it be Islam, Judaism or Christian.
Primary historically significant locations are the Temple of the Mount (one of the most holy sites in Islam), Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Christian) and the Western Wall (Judaism). Take a historical tour next to the Western Wall and walk deep into the old city to the base of the wall where several thousand years of history have been excavated deep underground. See the layers of the city as inhabitants built upon older parts of the city over time.
The old city is divided into four quarters; Muslim, Christian, Armenian and Jewish and can be access through a number of gates which serve as entrances. Take some time to wander some of these old streets – vendors, cafes, and miscellaneous shops are all located here.
Also take some time to wander out of the old city, that is easy to do as the old city is fairly compact in size. Walk through acres and acres of a cemetery (150,000 graves over 3000 years of Jewish history) to the top of the Mount of Olives and watch the sunset beyond the walls of the old city.
For more information visit the official city of Jerusalem tourist site: www.itraveljerusalem.com
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