Jerusalem
Jerusalem is revered as the beating heart of Palestine, even though many Palestinian residents have moved to Ramallah after being evicted from their homes. It remains a very special place, complementing the site of the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam's most important sites. From the beautiful walls of the Damascus Gate to the sensory paradise of the souks of the Old City, the city of Jerusalem is intoxicating, inescapable and unforgettable. Some of the larger surrounding communities are Al Ramm, Abu Diss and Al Eizariya.
Holy city of three different religions, Jerusalem is as beautiful and wonderful as it is twisted. Nowhere in the world is there as rich a religious history as the Old City of Jerusalem. You can follow in the footsteps of Jesus and the prophets, sleep under the same star that guided the Crusaders thousands of years ago, and worship in the holiest places in the Christian, Jewish and Muslim worlds But no place is as divided as Jerusalem.
The city has been at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and both sides have declared it their capital. While Ramallah has become the de facto capital of the Palestinian Authority, ask any Palestinian what their capital is and they will tell you Jerusalem. Because it is home to the iconic Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque, whose breathtaking golden domes are characteristic of the historic cityscape. Yet just a few yards away is Judaism's most important site, the Western Wall, believed to be the last remnant of the Temple on the Mount. The beating Arab heart of Jerusalem is rich and dazzling, an ancient city of colors, smells and sounds. While the Christian quarter is full of hauntingly beautiful churches. If there is anything worthy of the title of living history, it is it.
Jerusalem also exists beyond the ornate gates of the Old City, and its influence is felt in the 21st century through chic shopping malls, dining precincts, and many other tourist attractions. There's so much to see and do in the city, it's easy to see why it attracts around 3.5 million visitors each year. This city will fascinate you, teach you, unsettle you, but most importantly, it makes you want more. Welcome to Jerusalem.
What To Do
There is so much to see in and around the Old City of Jerusalem, and visitors can soak up its intense charm for weeks on end. Although many tours maneuver around the main attractions in just one sweaty day. Undisputed highlights are the boulder dome (a challenging but worthwhile place), the chaos, the stunning old town and the souks. However, a walk around the old city walls past Damascus Gate is a must. Visitors have to pay to walk some of the walls, but it's also worth looking for the steps to the rooftops of the old town. This captivating rooftop world showcases Jerusalem at its best, especially when the sun goes down. The Western Wall on the site of the Temple Mount is the holiest site in Judaism and a moving experience for all visitors. Adjacent to the old town is the biblical Mount of Olives, dotted with beautiful churches and the tomb of the Virgin Mary. At the foot is the Garden of Gethsemane, and the impressive Church of All Nations. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is another place not to be missed, as this is the famous site of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. Nearby is the informative Tower of David museum and archaeological site, and there are many other churches and museums worth visiting if you have the time. The tomb of King David, in a church outside the old city walls, is another impressive location, although there is little to see as far as the tomb is concerned. For any trip to Jerusalem, plan a must-see itinerary, or slowly let this beautiful city reveal its hidden tricks and secrets. Because exploring on foot is the only way to truly get to know the incredible Jerusalem.
Where To Eat
You can find everything from typical Arabic dishes to continental fine-dining here in Jerusalem. There is a limited number of restaurants in the Old City is, but head out to the main commercial center you can find a wide range of classy, buzzing ones.
Where To Stay
A diversity of accommodations to suit all tastes, from 5 stars hotels to hostel rooftops crammed with sleeping bags under the stars. Hostels are dotted throughout the Old Town meaning there is no shortage of places for visitors to rest their heads, while good-value private rooms can also be snapped up.
Martina
9th Apr, 2023Grande disponibilità e gentilezza. Un'ottima guida per una giornata meravigliosa a Gerusalemme.