Jerusalem has been the focal point of the early Israelites since the 10th century BCE. In modern times the Zionist movement has fulfilled the long-sought dream of resuming a Jewish presence in the city and sovereignty as well. This Jewish Heritage Tour will cover significant landmarks and historical monuments reflecting Jerusalem’s Jewish past and present.
Start the tour with a stunning panorama of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives Viewpoint, a perfect setting for a “Sheheyanu” blessing and introduction to Jerusalem. Next, descend to the City of David, the historical nucleus of the city. Enjoy the innovative visitor center, and review the main archaeological discoveries made above the city’s spring. Traverse the biblical water system of Jerusalem, leading to the pool of Siloam. Walk through Herodian era drainage channel up to the Southern Wall Archaeological Park and explore its remodeled visitor center and rich archaeological remains.
Following a visit to the Western Wall, head up to the Jewish Quarter for a lunch break combined with optional souvenir shopping in the commercial zone whose origins are from Roman times (the Cardo). Next, explore some of the quarter key sites – the Hurva Synagogue, first built in the 1700s. The Burnt House and the Herodian Quarter, reflecting the devastating Roman Destruction of Jerusalem in year 70AD, the Temple Institute, Ariel Center and more.
As the day unfolds, continue to King David’s Tomb mark on Mount Zion. A large stone cenotaph in an old Romanesque-style building Is marks the burial site, which has been venerated for centuries by Jews. The rooftop of the building also provides great panoramic views of the Old City. Adjacent to it is a less-known institution in memory of the Holocaust – the Chamber of the Holocaust. In the nearby Christian quarter you can also visit Schindler’s Grave. Conclude the day with a drive through the Ultra-Orthodox insular community of Mea Shearim and if time permits – a tour of Yad Vashem, Israel’s official Holocaust memorial.
With advanced reservations, it is also possible to join a group tour of the Western Wall Tunnels. These tunnels were dug along the entirety of the foundations of the Western Wall and reach its northern end. The Western Wall Heritage Foundation also offers unique attractions like a Virtual Tour of the Second Temple Chain of Generations. If you are also celebrating a Bar-Mitzvah, these can be especially fun and educational experiences.
