Jerusalem

Jerusalem is Israel's capital and it is, in my opinion, one of the most unique and beautiful cities in the world. Even 100 blogs won't be sufficient to describe this town, with its complex mix of people, government, religious and political issues.

Yesterday was a busy day for me. I took a tour in the tunnels leading from the Western wall, under the Muslim Quarter, visiting the latest archeological sites that were uncovered. A much larger part of th Western wall has been discovered as well as an original Jewish street, water holes for the priests and many visitors, well worth the visit.

Later I walked all over the old city market, did some shopping (and bargaining, of course). I took a bus later to the YMCA building for a tour with an Israeli architect describing the in and outs of this unique building that was built by the same architect who designed the Empire State Building. It served as a club for the British officers during the British mandate. It is right across from the very impressive King David Hotel, where kings and heads of State normally prefer to stay in Jerusalem.

I'm attaching several pictures in the following order:

-1. At the "Mahne Yehuda" Market
0. At the "Mahne Yehuda" Market
1. Jaffa Gate
2. A sign outside the King David Hotel
3. At the old city market in the Muslim Quarter
4. Praying at the Western Wall
5. On the way up to Jerusalem
6. A sign outside the YMCA
7. The wall surrounding the old city, near Jaffa Gate
8. Time to play
9. In the tunnels near the Western wall
10. At the Western wall
11. Dome of the rock - view from far
12. Bible study on the bus