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Model of Jerusalem – Paradoxically, the best place
to start your tour of the Old City might be 7 km. away in the Holyland Hotel.
The hotel contains a scale replica of the city as it appeared in the first
century BC. Kids seem to love miniatures like this and it provides a great
overview of the city. |
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The Western Wall – The remains of the First Temple
is an open air synagogue and Judaica's most holy shrine. |
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The Citadel – This castle, first build by Herod 2000 years ago,
makes a great starting point, sitting just inside the Jaffa Gate, since
it contains the Tower of David Museum. The museum chronicles 3,000
years of city history through the use of photography and audio-visual
displays (a lively display that today’s kids expect). Be sure to allot
enough time to explore the "archaeological gardens" where you’ll see layers
of history exposed. |
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The Haram-ash Sharif/Temple Mount – For the Jews. Christians, and Muslims
it is the holy place where God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son –
and for Muslims it is also where Mohammed rose to heaven. |
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Via Dolorosa – The path Jesus walked carrying his cross, (Via is road, Dolorosa is agonizing) it ends at the Church of the
Holy Sepulchre. |
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Church of the Holy Sepulchre – A church
built over the site where Jesus is believed to have been crucified and resurrected. |
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Dome of the Rock and Islamic Museum – The Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest places in one of the world’s
great religions, with its wonderful mosaics and the museum’s magnificent
stained glass windows are worth a trip. |
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Note: Be sure everyone wears or brings something long-sleeved,
and a handkerchief or other head gear, for places that require "modest"
dress (such as religious sites). |
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Old City market – A market that has probably
remained unchanged for thousands of years, with artisan stalls displaying
and textiles, farmer’s produce, local foods, and piles of exotic spices.
The noise, sights, smells create a great sensory break from the historical
sights – plan it for the middle of your trek and try local sodas or sweets
for snacks. |
