Jerusalem with a Jewish Accent

What to Expect

Archaeological Treasures of the Jewish Quarter
Our walk will begin from the Jaffa Gate, where you will hear the complex history of the Jewish Quarter: from the division of Jerusalem into East and West to the return of the Old City to the Israelites. I will talk about the restoration of the once large and populous Jewish Quarter and how it heralded the golden age of Jerusalem archaeology. You will discover a section of the ancient Cardo street, learn about the principles of Roman city planning and its main features - the two main streets, Roman baths, and pagan temples. And then you will feel the intertwining of eras, observing the ancient evidence on the streets of the Jewish Quarter and visiting the charming shops of artisans and artists.

Jerusalem's Symbols - From the Temple Mount to the Western Wall
You will visit four famous Sephardic synagogues built by those from Spain and learn about the mysteries hidden behind their facades. At Elijah the Prophet Synagogue, we will talk about why the prophet Elijah became a prototype of John the Baptist, and the Hurva Synagogue ("Ruins") will make you ponder the origin of its name. At the Temple Mount, we will examine the ancient Muslim structure - the gleaming Dome of the Rock memorial. Here, you will learn how closely intertwined and resonating are the traditions of different religions. Our tour will end at the city's main symbol - the Western Wall, where you can leave a note with a request to the Lord. And I will tell you how many letters to God arrive at the Jerusalem Post Office and why the saying "the walls have ears" is fully justified here.

Extended Route (optional)
If you wish, we can also include other historically and culturally significant places in Jerusalem in the tour:

• visit the house-museum of the high priest Katros, where archaeologists found evidence of the suppression of the Great Jewish Revolt by the Romans;
• ascend to the observation deck at the Esh a-Torah synagogue with a view of the Western Wall and the Temple Mount;
• visit the Tomb of King David and discuss the Chamber of the Last Supper located above it;
• explore the exhibition at the Herodian Street Museum.