The Old City interests many people for many different reasons. But with so many amazing sites within the walls of the Old City, including the Western “Wailing” Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Dome of the Rock, whatever you’re looking for you’re bound to find something that will not only interest you, but may well knock your socks off!

Take it from us, we’ve been to the Old City a number of times, and the adrenalin rush upon entering Jaffa Gate and the seemingly never-ending twists and turns of the alleys and side streets always leave us wanting to stay longer…

Old City, Jerusalem (taken from the Tower of David)

A quick Old City history lesson

The Old City might be less than 1 kilometer squared, but this amazing walled city was actually the whole of Jerusalem until 1860, when the first neighborhood beyond the walls was built. Hard to believe today when you look at the size of the modern city of Jerusalem…

The core of the Old City of Jerusalem has a history that is believed to go back more than 3,000 years, while the great walls that encase the Old City were first built in 1538 by Suileman the Magnificent. Up until 1948 and the Israeli War of Independence, Jews could live here, but following the war they were evicted as Jordan occupied the area. It wasn’t until after the Six Day War in 1967 that Jews could once again live and work in the Old City.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the Old City of Jerusalem is one of the most fought over cities ever  in human history.

The Four Quarters of the Old City, Jerusalem

The Old City of Jerusalem is divided in many ways politically, but there are four different quarters that divide the city culturally, religiously and even historically:

• The Christian Quarter
• The Jewish Quarter
• The Muslim Quarter
• The Armenian Quarter

Each of the four quarters is unique in its own way, providing a sense of history along with its own religious beliefs.  There are many different areas to visit, it’s just a matter of knowing whether you want to just visit the main historical sites or if you’re keen to delve further and explore the nooks and crannies of each of the different quarters…

The Christian Quarter

The Christian Quarter of the Old City is probably the first most tourists come across, as many tourists head into the Old City from Jaffa Gate, which is the closest entrance point for many staying in Jerusalem hotels.  Also just inside Jaffa Gate is the majestic Tower of David, a highly recommended stopover (officially part of the Armenian Quarter, see below).

After heading down David Street, one of the Old City’s main market streets, head left down HaNotsrim for the Church of St. John The Baptist, a popular starting point for Christian tourists. Then continue down HaNotsrim and take a right down Saint Helena. On your left is the amazing Church of the Sepulcher (read our full guide to this amazing site here), the site where it is believed Jesus was crucified and then buried.

There are a number of different Christian groups that keep and maintain the Christian Quarter. But there are arguments about who really should be taking care of what portion of the Quarter, which shows the squabbling is no different than anywhere else around the world.

The Jewish Quarter

For those who want to see what the Jewish day to day life in the Old City is like, then walking through the Jewish Quarter will do the job. The immediate impression you’ll get is it’s a lot quieter and cleaner than other parts of the Old City. You will see people walking about, but many of the small streets aren’t really for visiting.

The Western Wall, known as HaKotel in Hebrew, is the place to really take in more about the Jewish faith (read more about the ultimate site in the Old City here). This monumental wall is where you can leave prayers between the cracks, and is amazingly powerful and intense. Be aware that there are separate sections for men and women.  The Cardo, an excavated and partially reconstructed section of the Jerusalem main thoroughfare in the Byzantine era, is another part of the Jewish Quarter that can provide you with an insight into the history of the Old City.

The Jewish Quarter gives you a real glimpse into the heart of Jewish life in the Old City.

The Muslim Quarter

The Muslim Quarter is similar to the Jewish Quarter in that it has narrow alleys, but the streets are a lot busier. There’s definitely a sense of activity and a busy market atmosphere in many of the streets.

One of the sites that Muslims will head for is the Dome of the Rock, which is part of the Noble Sanctuary, home to the Foundation Stone which is sacred to Muslims, Jews, and Christians (but non-Muslims are prohibited from entering this area during Fridays and prayer times).  This is where Muslims believe that Muhammad ascended into Heaven, accompanied by Gabriel. Another important site is the Monastery of the Flagellation, where it has been said that Christ was flogged by the Roman soldiers prior to His crucifixion and is the first point on the famous Via Dolorosa, the first of the 14 Stations of the Cross.

The Muslim Quarter happens to be the largest of the four quarters. You might also be surprised to know, considering the ever-present tensions in the area, that there are Jewish families that reside in this quarter.

The Armenian Quarter

The Armenian Quarter is the smallest of all the quarters. It has more of an ancient feel to it because of its compact size and number of people who are part of this quarter, and it runs itself like a city within a city.

The standout site to see is the amazing Citadel, known as the Tower of David. This is one of our favorite spots in the Old City, and well worth checking out (read our full guide here – and you might want to check out the impressive Night Spectacular Show too!). There is also the Armenian Museum and St. James Cathedral (one of the most beautiful of all the sacred old buildings in the Old City), two sites of interest for many Old City visitors.

Map of the Old City, Jerusalem

Tel Aviv, often called The City That Never Sleeps, has slowly evolved over the past few years into an enthralling and engaging city, a city that will amaze, delight, and have you begging for more!

We’ve done our best to condense the very best Tel Aviv attractions into a list of TEN essential things we feel you have to see and do, but just be aware these are the tip of the iceberg. With ten miles of glorious sandy beaches, 300 days of sunshine a year, and locals ever more hungry for more culture, art, and good times, there’s just so many more things to see and do in Tel Aviv for those ready to explore further!

In no particular order, here are the TEN things you really have to see and do in Tel Aviv…

Explore the gorgeous neighborhood of Neve Tzedek

Probably Tel Aviv’s prettiest neighborhood, it regularly attracts swarms of visitors, all keen to stroll the many narrow streets and marvel at the amazing architecture of the area. There’s also some great little galleries and shops, and cute little cafes and restaurants to check out.

Definitely one place not to forget your camera! Read our full guide to Neve Tzedek here.

Haggle, haggle, and haggle some more at Carmel Market

There’s nothing quite like a visit to a local market to mix it up with the locals, and Carmel Market is THE one to see. It’s an amazing place, what with the astounding array of sights, sounds and smells that assault your senses! And the colors, oh boy…!

You won’t ever forget your visit to Carmel Market – and you might also learn to haggle like a pro! Read more here.

Catch some rays on one of Tel Aviv’s gorgeous beaches

The place to be in the summer (and the summers are long in Israel!), the beaches of Tel Aviv are hard not to fall in love with! Just a step away from the noise and hustle of the city, it’s always a pleasure to find yourself  opposite the blue, sparkling Med.

With 10km of fine, sandy beaches, it’s really just a matter of picking your favorite spot! Read our full guide to Tel Aviv beaches here.

Step back in time to the alleyways of Old Jaffa

The delights of Old Jaffa are located at the southern end of Tel Aviv, and those very picturesque alleyways are a must stroll down! They are a complete contrast to the modern bustle of Tel Aviv, and simply ooze with charm…

And while in Jaffa, we’d highly recommend a visit to the legendary nearby Flea Market where you can get your haggling hat on once again! Read more about Jaffa here.

Eat out at one of Tel Aviv’s amazing restaurants

Tel Aviv has over the last few years turned itself into a food connoisseur’s delight, with anything and everything on offer! Forget felafel and hummus, we’re talking about some awesome restaurants, host to some of the most talented and adventurous chefs in the world.

Check out our guide to the very best bars, cafes and restaurants in Tel Aviv!

Spend some time in charming Tel Aviv Port

This charming port has been transformed over the last few years from a derelict, rundown old thing into a site alive with culture, leisure, shopping and entertainment options.

Usually packed at the weekend, it’s a place for ALL: from families out with the kids or grandparents during the day, to party revelers at night – the place is buzzing! Read more here.

Get an overdose of culture at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is home to one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Israeli art in the world. Here you can find the work of many Israeli artists who have made it big internationally, as well as the works of masters such as Van Gogh, Monet, Chagall, and Modigliani. With activities for the kids too, you could easily spend all day here!

Read more about the Tel Aviv Art Museum here.

Browse the delights of the Nachalat Binyamin art market

The Nachalat Binyamin market is one of Israel’s biggest arts and crafts markets and a superb place to browse for original Tel Aviv souvenirs (think ceramics, toys, paintings, framed photos and Judaical pieces); all handmade and sold by their artist creators!

This awesome market also runs parallel to Carmel Market, so makes a perfect day out! Read more here.

Enjoy Tel Aviv’s hub of entertainment and style, HaTachana

HaTachana (The Station), where uber-modern meets bohemian chic, where arty meets practical and where some of the best shops and restaurants ply their trade.

Originally the terminal for the Jaffa-Jerusalem railway, this revitalized space might be the New Kid on the Block, but has already become a huge hit with locals and tourists. Read our full guide here.

Stroll the streets and see amazing Bauhaus buildings

Tel Aviv has some amazing architecture to see, and in particular, watch out for the many white Bauhaus buildings which dominate the Tel Aviv landscape, and which have led Tel Aviv to be known as The White City.

Take a stroll down Rothschild Blvd, and Dizengoff and Bialik streets for the best of the White City! Read our full guide here.

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There are great additions to this list that we just couldn’t squeeze in to a Top 10, including a walk down the famous Shenkin Street (now being pedestrianized and upgraded as we speak), Tel Aviv’s amazing and world-renowned nightlife, and even the Luna Park, the amusement park your kids will love you for! There’s just so much to see in one of the world’s most happening cities…

And to add yet another reason to visit this cool city, and to give you an idea of how open, accepting and liberal Tel Aviv is, it was recently voted the Top Gay City in the world by a leading gay website.

Come on, what are you waiting for – Tel Aviv is waiting for YOU!

For those who aren’t familiar with the term, Bauhaus was actually a German school which operated between 1919 and 1933 and was devoted to art, architecture and design. Bauhaus had a significant impact on those disciples and is commonly used to refer to the art deco style of architecture that was the result of such teaching and became particularly popular in the 1930s and 1940s, especially with the arrival of many immigrant German architects ready to design and build the raidly growing Tel Aviv.

The Bauhaus Style saw primary forms and colours given great importance and with a focus on functionalism and rationality in building, it saw a marked departure from ornament as an architectural style. The Bauhaus Style can be seen in over 4000 Tel Aviv buildings, each displaying its own variation of asymmetry, compositions of primary volumes, both cubic and rounded, with ribbon windows, thermometer balconies, roof terraces and wonderful plays of shadow and light.

One of the key aspects of the Bauhaus Style that many are unfamiliar with is its focus on the social aspects of design, and it is believed that this factor prompted the style to become so popular in Tel Aviv, and Israel, at a time when socialist ideas were prevalent.

Where can I see Bauhaus Style buildings in Tel Aviv?

If you’re interested in going solo, the most common areas to check out are:

• Rothschild Street (and the surrounding area of Shenkin, notably Gruzenburg, Mazeh (especially the intersection with Nahmani), Lilenblum, Balfour and Melchett streets)
• Dizengoff Street
• Bialik Street

Alternatively, you could join the FREE ‘WHITE CITY’ tour, which sets off every Saturday at 11:00. Meeting point is at 46 Rothschild Street. This tour focuses on the modern architectural White City area along Rothschild Street, and describes the story of Tel Aviv.

Perhaps the ultimate option is to visit the Bauhaus Center, which was established in 2000 with the intention of promoting recognition of Tel Aviv as the ‘White City’ (it worked – in 2003 Tel Aviv achieved UNESCO World Heritage Site status on account of its Bauhaus architecture). The center features collections (both permanent and changing exhibitions) and also tours. Its tours are run regularly including every Friday at 10am when the tour is conducted in English (other languages are available – contact the center for details, www.bauhaus-center.com). Each guide is licensed and will take you on a fascinating trip to see the city’s most worthy Bauhaus gems. The tour takes approximately 2 hours and costs 60 shekels (approx. $17). If you prefer to take a self-guided tour, the center has plans of the city, architecture-related maps and audio guides accompanied by videos so that you can discover the city more independently. A popular and interesting way to spend half a day in the city.

Is Tel Aviv really such a ‘White City’?

Some argue that the Bauhaus Style has led to Tel Aviv being a drab, grey city of concrete and with legal and economic difficulties attached to restoring the buildings there is sadly much evidence of the elements taking their toll with many crumbling Bauhaus buildings that haven’t seen a splash of paint since the 1950s. However, work is being done to see that the city and its buildings are restored so that it once again wears it title The White City with pride.

Nestled between the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea, this desert oasis is one of the most fascinating places to visit due to its biblical references, historical roots stretching back over 5,000 years, and the Dead Sea itself.

Ein Gedi successfully mixes modern tourism with the exciting historical surroundings to provide any tourist with a truly unique desert adventure. Ein Gedi is one of the most visited places in Israel and with so many things to add to your must-see list, we’d recommend taking some time in this neck of the desert…

Ein Gedi: some history

Ein Gedi dates back some 5,000 years to the first settlers who came to the area; archaeological remains from that time can still be found throughout the area and further afield.

In Biblical times Ein Gedi was a fishing town and an important source of balsam. It was also named in Joshua 15:62 as one of the cities of the Tribe of Judah. Other Biblical mentions include King David, who once took refuge there from King Saul, and Songs 1:14 mentions the vineyards of Ein Gedi.

Over 5000 years of history in one of the world’s most amazing locations…

Things to see and do in Ein Gedi

With so much to see and do it can be difficult knowing where to start, but we’ve come up with the biggies you’ll want to check out and experience…

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve (+972-8-6584285): One of the must sees in the Ein Gedi area, this nature reserve is home to two great mini-treks: Nakhal David and Nakhal Arugot. Remember to bring your hiking shoes and prepare to be amazed at the natural beauty of the place, as you walk through canyons and caves, past springs and waterfalls.

Nakhal David (also known as David Stream) has several waterfalls that cascade out from the desert hills and offers several walking tracks to explore. You can take the lower route which is a 1.5 hour trek to the beautiful waterfalls and back. A middle route allows you to explore the fascinating Dudim cave at the top adding another 1.5 hours on to your walk, or you can choose the longer 5-hour walk to the dry canyon, Ein Gedi Springs and back down alongside the streams. A great way to experience first hand the nature and spectacular scenery of the area!

Nakhal Arugot is adjacent to Nakhal David and offers the visitor many shallow pools to bathe, rest and wash those weary feet. It’s a 4km circular hike to get there, but well worth it.

Hiking and trekking: There are some other great walking trails in the area, but it might be the better solution to arrange a tour with someone who knows the area well. We’d recommend visiting Kibbutz Ein Gedi (see below) and asking around; renowned local Benny Rambo will be more than happy to take you on a fun trekking expedition in his 4-wheel drive jeep. Benny’s a fun and knowledge guy who’ll regale you with history and enthuse you with an infectious appreciation of the local desert hot-spots.

Masada and Qumran Caves: If you’re in the area, a quick trip to Masada, the mountain top fortress (especially worth seeing at sunrise), and the Qumran caves (where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered) is very highly recommended. Both are a short drive from Ein Gedi.

Kibbutz Ein Gedi: Founded in 1953, one of Israel’s nicest kibbutzes is located on a nearby hilltop overlooking the area.  The kibbutz has a botanical garden with plants and trees from all over the world. If you walk among the houses in the evening you can view the flowering cacti and baobab tress, as well as other unique plants. Visitors to the area can lodge in the attractive kibbutz guest house, in the nearby field school, or camp out on the shore of the Dead Sea.

Float in the Dead Sea: A must do when visiting Ein Gedi is to try floating in the Dead Sea at the public beach (for more info, call +972-8-6594433). There’s no other place like the Dead Sea in the world! You could also enjoy a black-mud body wrap during your visit, known to cleanse and stimulate the skin as well as relieve muscle tension. 

Shopping and hotels: There aren’t too many shopping malls in the area :-) but there are a number of outlets offering locally produced Dead Sea products if you’re looking to take back home something memorable, and healthy!

For a look at some of the best hotels in the Dead Sea, click here.

Nightlife: In terms of nightlife, you won’t be able to strut your stuff too often, unless you manage to catch a party at the kibbutz pub, or you’re staying at one of the fancy hotels on the Ein Bokek hotel strip.  There are a few restaurants dotted around in the area, including at the kibbutz, to replenish those parts after an exhausting day trekking or floating in the Dead Sea.

Location, opening hours and accessibility

Ein Gedi is located on Road 90 in the Judean Desert on the western shore of the Dead Sea, and is easy to reach by bus from Jerusalem (Line 486) or from Tel Aviv (Line 421).

The Nakhal David and Nakhal Arugot trails are open daily seven days per week from 8:00 to 16:00/17:00 depending on the season.

Have a great trip!

The mount runs down into the Kidron Valley, a wonder of its own that separates the Temple Mount (where the iconic Dome of the Rock is located) from the Mount of Olives and continues down in to the Judean desert…

The Mount of Olives is associated with Christian and Jewish traditions and is named after the olive trees that previously adorned its slopes. During the First and Second Temple Periods in particular the mount was a location of great significance and was the center of Jerusalem life. Still today the mount is considered a place of holy significance and location of pilgrimage.

One of the most striking aspects of the mount is that it served as a Jewish cemetery for more than 3,000 years and has around 150,000 graves. Burials were halted between 1948 and 1967 during Jordanian occupation when mass vandalism of around 40,000 to 50,000 graves took place, but it still remains a burial site today. There is in fact a team in Jerusalem photographing every grave, mapping it digitally, and recording every name so that the information will eventually be available online.

Many biblical references are also tied in with the Mount of Olives; it is also considered to be the location where God will redeem the dead (and all those buried on the mount will be resurrected) when the Messiah returns on the Day of Judgment.

Norman Macleod, a missionary visiting Israel back in 1864 famously wrote this:

As a place of burial it differs from almost every other on earth, in being, as no other is, a witness to a faith that is firm, decided and uncompromising until death. It is not therefore the vast multitude who sleep here, but the faith which they held in regard to their Messiah, that makes this spectacle so impressive.

There are a number of very interesting Christian graves on the mount: for example, you can find the remains of Prince Phillip’s mother, Princess Alice of Battenberg, and Russian Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna, who was killed with the Czar’s family during the Russian Revolution.

If you’re interested in exploring more in-depth, check out the Mount of Olives Information Center, situated on Derekh Yericho street, 200 meters east of the traffic lights at Lion’s Gate.  The center can supply information about the sites on the mount or help you locate graves in the cemetery. If you have some spare time, the center can also arrange volunteer activities on the Restoration of the Mount of Olives Graves Project. Tours are also available at the mount including the Pilgrim’s Tour, Israel’s Fighting Heritage and the Jerusalem Path (North).  Ask at the center for details.

How do I get to the Mount of Olives?

There are a number of ways to reach the Mount of Olives. A taxi can be an economic way if there are more than two people sharing, otherwise it is possible to walk there from either St. Stephen’s Gate in the Old City or from East Jerusalem. Alternatively you can take the bus from the bus station on Sultan Suleiman St. (no. 75, around 5.5NIS).

Here’s a great clip of the Mount of Olives which will give you an idea of how close it is to the Old City…

Click here to view the embedded video.

After a long voting campaign that saw a huge number of candidates whittled down to 28 top sites around a year ago, the Dead Sea had long been one of the favorites to be included as one of the New 7 Wonders. But despite losing out to a top 7 slot, it’s awesome to see it included anyway; we always knew how amazing the place was, now hopefully a few more people know too!

One major downer from losing out is not the loss of the anticipated rise in tourism to the area, but the fact that this was a great opportunity to bring new awareness to the plight facing the Dead Sea. For those of you who don’t know, the level of the Dead Sea is sinking by approximately a meter every year. Hopefully that can still be addressed…

Anyway, well done the Dead Sea for getting so close (the Final 14)!

For further reading on the amazing place that is The Lowest Place on Earth, here are some of our most popular articles from the last few months:

• Floating in the Dead Sea
• The healthiest tourist spot in Israel
• Spencer Tunick’s Naked Dead Sea installation
• 5 awesome views of the Dead Sea (that you can’t see in Israel!)
• 10 things you didn’t know about the Lowest Place on Earth

And if you haven’t already visited the Dead Sea, we’d really, really recommend it – it’s one of Israel’s true wonders!

For centuries this magnificent building has sat atop the area known as Temple Mount and found itself at the heart of a city torn apart by religious and territorial conflict. A city that for more than one religion represents the center of the Earth…

Though located in the middle of the Old City of Jerusalem, the Dome of the Rock is actually a Muslim shrine. Despite its controversial location (it is constructed on the site of the Second Jewish Temple), it is a magnificent example of Islamic architecture and is the oldest existing, still standing Muslim building in the world.

The construction was ordered by Caliph Abd-al Malik ibn Marwan and was completed in 691CE. It broke new ground for Islamic architecture as the rotunda form had previously been a feature of Christian buildings. Indeed, some studies suggest that the architects of the Dome of the Rock used the nearby Church of the Holy Sepulcher as a rough blueprint.

The choice of Temple Mount as the location for a magnificent new shrine seems to be down to a few reasons: not only did the Temple Mount have a commanding view of ancient Jerusalem, but it was also the site of the Second Jewish Temple which had been destroyed during a Roman siege in 70CE.

In addition, the area was already dominated by the aforementioned Holy Sepulcher, so positioning a mosque in a more elevated location and on former sacred grounds was a statement of Islam asserting its superiority (at that time) over all over faiths.

Why are the Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount so significant?

The original idea behind the Dome of the Rock was the building of a Muslim shrine with the titular “rock” at the heart of the building. This Foundation Stone signified the location of the culmination of Mohamed’s magical journey from Mecca from where he ascended to his private audience with Allah in heaven. With this spiritual foundation, the Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount remains to this day one of the most important worship and pilgrimage sites in the Muslim world.

But it’s not quite that straightforward, as you’d expect in this part of the world…

The Foundation Stone and the Temple Mount area is also seen as the center of creation for Jews. They believe this is the location of the Holy of Holies from the Temple Period, which was only entered by the High Priest, and also the location where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac. Indeed, many Orthodox rabbis expressly forbid Jews to enter the Temple Mount as the precise whereabouts of the Stone and the Holy of Holies are not known, hence the whole Temple Mount is off-limits.

Starting to get an idea of why this little country is seemingly so volatile…?

As only people of the Islamic faith are allowed to enter the Dome of the Rock itself, non-Muslims can only stand and gaze at the magnificence of the building and let their minds wonder back through its rich history. Think back to the crusades when the Augustinians occupied this holy place and turned the nearby Al Aqsa mosque into a royal horse stable, or when the Knights Templar believed it was their right to have their headquarters there throughout much of the 12th century with a belief it was built on the site of the Temple of Solomon.

And can  you imagine the significance to the warring nations of the Arab world when the flag of Israel and the Star of David was flown from the Dome after the Six Day War and people entered with the Torah in hand…

Today the Dome of the Rock is amicably managed by the Ministry of Awqaf in Amman, Jordan but the battle rages on in the arenas of religious doctrines and theorems…

How do I get to the Dome of the Rock?

To get to the Dome of the Rock, you enter through a wooden walkway next to the Western Wall (another must see in Jerusalem). Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosques on the Temple Mount and you will be subjected to some heavy screening. Note that items such as Jewish prayer books will be prohibited. Hours are also fairly limited: 7:30–11:30 am and 1:30–2:30 pm during summer and 7:30–10:30 am and 1:30–2:30 pm during winter. Non-Muslims won’t be allowed in after 2:30 pm and may not enter on Fridays, Saturdays, or Muslim holidays.

Whatever your faith and whatever your view of the political and religious issues, the Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount remain magnificent and atmospheric sites not to be missed on any visit to Jerusalem.

Visiting Yad Vashem is a very humbling experience, but a definite must do if you want to gain a deeper insight into the Israel psyche. It’s not the funnest few hours you’ll ever have in Israel, but the stories of courage of both men and women that fought the Nazi regime, mixed with the sorrow and reflection for the lives lost makes for a very powerful visit.

Yad Vashem, which means “a place and a name” in Hebrew (referring to the millions who were not given the dignity of a Jewish burial with a specified burial plot), also recognizes and honors a number of non-Jewish people that helped save Jews during this bleak period. These heroes are referred to as The Righteous Among The Nations.

It’s a place that remembers the past and safeguards its memory for future generations so that people can learn about what happened, why it happened and what was the meaning behind it all. That sense of purpose results in over 800,000 people visiting the Yad Vashem Museum every year and it is renowned as a dynamic and vital center for inter-generational and international encounters.

Just a word of advice: when you visit, prepare yourself for a highly emotional journey as you witness the carnage and tragedy of one of the most infamous episodes in the world’s history.

A brief history of Yad Vashem Museum

The idea behind the museum goes all the way back to 1942 when it was first proposed at a board meeting of the Jewish National Fund. In 1945 the plan received much greater attention to detail and by 1946 Yad Vashem opened an office in Jerusalem and a smaller branch office in Tel Aviv. In 1953 the Israel Parliament passed the Yad Vashem Law establishing the Martyrs and Heroes Remembrance Authority. In 1993 a much larger museum was built, and in 2005 the new look Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum was finally opened.

What not to miss

The Yad Vashem Museum has a wide variety of things to see and do. It’s also much larger than you first imagine and covers some 45 acres in total, so allow plenty of time to see everything.

There are 10 exhibition halls, each covering a different part of Holocaust history. The impressive Yad Vashem Museum Complex contains the Holocaust Museum, Exhibitions Pavilion, Art Museum, Learning Centre, Visual Centre and the Synagogue.

It’s not easy to suggest things that you really should check out, as the whole Yad Vashem experience is worth seeing, but if you’re pushed for time we’d highly recommend the chilling Hall of Names, where over 3 million names of Holocaust victims are listed, and Yad Layeled, a memorial to all the 1.5 million Jewish children that perished in the Holocaust. Kind of brings life’s little problems into perspective…

There are currently 37 exhibitions to take in covering all aspects of the Holocaust and an extensive photographic archive to peruse. There are also Audio Guides, a Book and Resource Centre and a nice cafeteria to take lunch or recharge your batteries.

If you’re interested in delving a little deeper into some of the stories behind the Holocaust, pay a visit to the Holocaust Resource Center. There you can find letters and diaries written by Jews during the Holocaust as well as photographs and original documents from the period. There are also testimonies from Holocaust survivors and excerpts from memoirs written after the war and an extensive collection of maps and artifacts.

Location, opening hours and accessibility

Yad Vashem Museum is located at the foot of Mount Herzl on the Mount of Remembrance in Jerusalem, and is open every day except Saturdays and all Jewish Holidays. It’s open Sunday to Wednesday 09:00-17:00, Thursdays 09:00-20:00, and Fridays and Holiday Eves 09:00-14:00.

Entrance is free and does not require prior booking. Yad Vashem also caters for wheelchair access and provides assistance for the hearing impaired. Assistance is also provided for visually impaired persons in the Library.

For more info, see the official site: www.yadvashem.org

For a virtual tour of the museum, check out this impressive official video…

Click here to view the embedded video.

There’s just something surreal about the sensation you feel when entering the water, as your legs are slowly forced to rise and you find yourself afloat. You’ll probably find it surprisingly hard to stand up, as the salt water of the Dead Sea (it’s eight times more salient than regular seas) takes control of your buoyancy. Don’t fight it, just let go and enjoy!

It really is great fun, and will give you a sense of freedom you’ve probably never felt before. Just lie back and soak in the sun. And though we wouldn’t usually recommend soaking up those cruel Middle Eastern rays, because the Dead Sea is so low, the harmful UV rays are much weaker…

Our hot tip: Cake yourself in some genuine Dead Sea mud (easy to find at beaches like Kalia Beach) and then soak in the Dead Sea. You’ll end up feeling like a million dollars!

Best beach for floating in the Dead Sea? Head for Mineral Beach (and definitely order the massage in advance, Tel: 02-9944888) or Kalia Beach, or even the spa at Ein Gedi.

Things to avoid: DON’T jump, splash or dive in – you’re eyes really won’t appreciate the salt! DON’T try swimming in the Dead Sea. DON’T immerse your head. And DON’T drink the water. We’d also recommend NOT shaving or waxing the same day; those open pores will burn!

And here’s a great couple of clips to get you in the mood for that perfect touristy moment: floating in the Dead Sea…

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

As a tourist destination however, there is a second dimension to the Dead Sea; visitors worldwide come to the Dead Sea to experience the health benefits of the lowest point on Earth.

Why is the Dead Sea so healthy? Well, the water of the Dead Sea is exceptionally saline because it has no outlet and is a “terminal lake” which, in the blazing Middle-Eastern sunlight, loses vast amounts of water through evaporation (the water level is falling by 1 meter every year). It hence has a very high concentration of various minerals which is further boosted by the leaching occurring from stratified rock and alluvial deposits from the mud forming the seabed.

Although the popular misconception is that the Dead Sea contains only sodium, it actually contains a veritable cocktail of other beneficial minerals including magnesium, bromides, calcium chlorides and potassium. The healing properties of these minerals, consistently verified by scientific analysis, are manifold:

• Magnesium has anti-aging properties and also combats fluid retention and stress disorders.
• Calcium chlorides help to prevent the onset of osteoporosis by strengthening calcium-based bones and nails.
• Potassium has moisturizing effects and replenishes energy after strenuous exercise. This makes potassium a great combination with bromides which help to relieve muscle and joint tensions.
• The ubiquitous sodium boosts the immune system by restoring lymphatic fluid balance.

It is these amazing properties that inspire visitors suffering from a myriad of ailments, ranging from tendonitis and arthritis to those suffering from depression and anxiety, to journey to the Dead Sea for healing.

That healing and recuperation process often morphs into lengthy sessions at the various Dead Sea beaches, with lots of that mineral-packed mud being smothered all over pale, foreign skin. There is nothing quite like splashing on the mud and letting the dry heat of the Dead Sea sun bake the mud on your body. Totally revitalizing!

Many tourists also stop off at one of  the numerous Dead Sea spas that have sprouted up in recent years to prolong that feeling of relaxation and well-being.

Some of the resorts and spas that have become very popular recently include the impressive Le Meridien Hotel Spa (formerly the Hyatt Regency Dead Sea Health Club); it boasts an incomparable range of facilities such as a seawater pool, heated mineral pools and full spa facilities with sauna, massage and Jacuzzi.

There are plenty of other good options to choose from, and highly recommended on any visit to the Dead Sea. After months of slogging through life-sapping cubicle jobs (for many of us!), the serenity of one of these Dead Sea spas is invaluable. Just check that the hotel you’re booking also includes spa facilities, or is very near some.

The Dead Sea is not only incredibly healthy and revitalizing, it is also the perfect launching pad for a tour of some of Israel’s fascinating sites. Within driving distance are attractions such as Masada, the ancient mountain top fortress, Qumran, the ancient home of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and Mitzpeh Ramon, an eco-tourism town. And with the Holy City of Jerusalem just an hour’s drive away, there’s nothing like escaping back to the waters of the Dead Sea after a long walk round the amazing sights and sounds of the Old City. The Dead Sea really has to be the healthiest spot in Israel to base yourself!

Find out for yourself why the beaches of the Dead Sea are almost always packed with mud-covered tourists – go live the Dead Sea experience!

Looking for accommodation in the Dead Sea? Click here for great reviews of some of the Dead Sea’s best options.

Despite its rather unimpressive exterior - it does seem somewhat squeezed between a variety of other buildings and edifices in the Christian Quarter of the Old City - this Church has to be on your list of Christian sites to see in the Holy Land, however seriously you take your faith.

Today the church is shared by five different Christian communities; Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Coptic, Syrian Orthodox and Armenian. This happy co-existence has been long in the making and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre has a long colorful history which you can revel in when you visit what is a powerful, spiritual and one-to-last-in-the-memory site.

Don’t miss our guide to the other must-see Christian sites in the Holy Land, including Bethlehem and Nazareth!

So, a little bit of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre’s history

The hill where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre now stands has been a site of worship since as early as the 2nd century with the first building believed to have been a Temple dedicated to Aphrodite.

This was replaced by a Basilica at the behest of Emperor Constantine I, sometime in the mid 320s. It was during the excavations for this building that the evidence that supports the shrine today was found, namely the True Cross and the tomb. The plans were then redrawn to accommodate the finds and the new Basilica was consecrated as the church to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In 1009 the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was destroyed on the orders of Fatimid caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah after having enjoyed 600 hundred years as a shrine protected on the order of a succession of Muslim and Moorish rulers.

It wasn’t until 1048 that a rebuilt church was completed and became the focus of the Crusades during which it changed hands several times but remained intact and even added to.

There then followed a period of often violent squabbling among all arms of the Christian church which continued for centuries until the 1852 Status Quo sharing agreement. The agreement still stands today and has resulted in various parts of the Church of Holy Sepulchre being dedicated to the different sects and has also resulted in something to watch with fascination when you visit.

What to see in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher

In the late afternoon, each group with a shared ownership of the church proceeds in turn from the Calvary to the tomb. As a watching tourist you can enjoy it all; there might be a similarity in the swinging censers (incense holders) and candle carriers but there are distinct differences in the robes, chanting/incantations and hymn singing.

The authenticity of the shrine aspect of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre makes it the place of reverent gorgeousness that it is today and whether you believe or not, you can’t help yourself from feeling the power of worship of fellow Christians as you gaze upon the Stone of Unction, marking the spot where Christ’s body was prepared for burial. Don’t be surprised if the person next to you rubs something on the stone to absorb its sanctity.

As you climb the narrow steps to the Calvary you’ll find yourself in the most lavishly decorated part of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Not surprising really, as this site is regarded as the site of the crucifixion.

In this area you will find The Rock of Calvary (12th Station of the Cross) in the Greek Orthodox altar under glass, the Roman Catholic Chapel of the Nailing of the Cross (11th Station of the Cross) and towards the Eastern Orthodox chapel, a statue of Mary (the 13th Station of the Cross).

After you’ve seen the Calvary, make your way to the Rotunda under the larger of the two domes to the stunningly constructed Aedicule which contains the Holy Sepulchre itself.

Here you can see the Angel’s Stone, a fragment of the rock believed to have sealed Jesus’s burial tomb and the tomb itself.

The innermost room of the Aedicule is covered in striking medieval marble and there are some beautiful examples of iconic art. To the rear of the Aedicule you’ll find the Coptic Orthodox altar in a delightful chapel of lattice ironwork and if you’re interested in the Roman Catholic section of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher you’ll locate it on the southeastern side of the Rotunda in the Chapel of the Apparition.

There are also chapels in practically every corner of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, but there’s a few of major significance that really should be on your list of things to see, including these three:

• The Greek Chapel of St. Longinus - this Orthodox Greek chapel is dedicated to St. Longinus, a Roman soldier who according to the New Testament pierced Jesus with a spear
• Chapel of Mary Magdalene – indicating the place where Mary Magdalene met Jesus after his resurrection
• Roman Catholic Chapel of the Invention of the Holy Cross – believed to be the place where the True Cross was found.

You can also visit the Prison of Christ, although the attribution of this site is still hotly contested amongst the Franciscans, Greek Orthodox and Armenians.

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is a working church so all the usual requisites of a Christian church can be seen as you make your way around it. You can even make your way to the roof from the courtyard of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate for stunning views of Jerusalem.

Just remember, as a tourist visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulcher you are in a place of immense religious significance, so please dress (no shorts are advised but we got in with no problem, and long trousers in the famous Israeli summers isn’t much fun) and act accordingly.

Layout of the Church

If you want to know where you’re heading within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, before you go there you might want to print this image out and take it with you.

Location and Opening Hours

Address: Suq Khan e-Zeit and Christian Quarter Rd in the Old City’s Christian Quarter.

Opening Hours: Throughout the year it opens at 05:00. It closes at 20:00 from April-September, and at 19:00 from October-March.

Once the terminal for the Jaffa-Jerusalem railway, The Station (HaTachana in Hebrew, and yes, that’s a cccchhh, spit it out!) has been remodeled into an area that to the well-traveled tourist, conjures up a heady mix of the nonchalance of St. Mark’s Square, Venice and the theater of London’s Covent Garden.

It took 5 years of redevelopment and conservation to change the old railway station building and the immediate environs into an attractive complex of boutique shops, restaurants and cute, little markets but any trip to Tel Aviv really should include a stop-by here.

Even if you happen to not make the connection of old meets new when you are greeted with the old railway carriage at the entrance to HaTachana, just appreciate the quirkiness as a taste of things to come. But, it’s quirky in the best sense.

That previously jumbled mass of railway cars, tracks and an ugly old concrete factory at HaTachana is now where uber-modern meets bohemian chic, where arty meets practical and where some of the best shops and restaurants ply their trade. You walk on wooden pathways laid between the old rails which are still on show between gaily colored market stalls or stand under the shade of an umbrella watching any of the street performers that have already become part of a visit to HaTachana.

When you plan your visit to HaTachana you should probably allow a good half day, with time for a big pit-stop in one of the many great little cafes or restaurants…and any time of the day is good, though if you make it on Friday mornings you have the Orbanic market (an organic/urban fusion). On other days you’ll find craft shows, and open air performances but to be honest Friday is probably the most happening day (as is the case for most of Israel…).

Some things to definitely check out if you’re in the mood to splash some cash (just so you know, the shops keep amenable hours of 10am to 10pm):

• Made in TLV: There’s no “I heart Tel Aviv” tourist tat tees here but stylish objects d’art that you won’t just throw away when you get home.
• A must for the ladies is the Ahava shop selling a range of products made from Dead Sea Salts.
• Gaya Games shop: where the inner kid in you will joyfully wile away some minutes, trying to solve those awesome puzzle games they have. Be warned – it’s addictive!
• Plenty of swanky boutiques where you can sample home grown designers, including: Ronen Chen, Naama Bezalel, Ido Recanati, and Charlie Paloma.

After you are all shopped out and your wallet can’t take the strain, stop by at one of the cafes and restaurants. Dining alfresco in HaTachana is de rigueur and all part of the experience. Traditional and modern Israeli cuisine is well represented as is Italian; we’d recommend Cafe Tachana, which is located in one of the original buildings from 1892 and  Shushka Shvili, which is in an old templar’s home, and has a great view of Jaffa.

This lovely complex really does have enough sights and sounds to thrill the senses and it may well be the new kid on the block, but already its reputation is such that you really have to check it out.

Location: HaTachana is at the south end of Neve Tzedek at No. 1 Koifmann Street, Tel Aviv. Parking is available right next to the complex.

Also check out their website for details of the latest exhibitions and events: www.hatachana.co.il