old jerusalem tours

Tour of Jerusalem’s Old City

If you do just one tour in Israel, make sure it’s this one! On the Old City of Jerusalem tour, you will see some of the world’s most interesting and important places.

Old City of Jerusalem tour – Main sites

The western wall, the temple mount, the church of the holy sepulchre.

• The four quarters
• Get all my Jerusalem tours or  only this tour

Old City tour trailer

I’ve also added lots of my own personal recommendations regarding places to eat, change money and go shopping. You can also get my tours as booklets.

Old City tour – Warnings

The Old City is a safe place.

Your chances of being pickpocketed or robbed are extremely low, and certainly much lower than in any big city in Europe or the US. However, there are some issues you need to be aware of.

Travelers often complain about pushy and aggressive sellers. Check out this post if you want to visit interesting and honest shops. (All of the good places are featured in my  Jerusalem app ).

Don’t use the services of random guides who approach you. They will take you to their shops and pressure you to buy. If you need to withdraw money, use the bank ATM in the Jewish quarter.

Jaffa Gate (and other options for starting your Old City tour)

A video from my app

I start my tours at Jaffa Gate, but you can also enter the city from the New Gate, which is particularly handy if you want to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. If visiting the church is a priority for you, do yourself a favor and head there early. From 9 am, the church quickly fills up with groups.

Another option is to start the day with a visit to the Temple Mount. The Temple Mount is only open to non-Muslims from one gate, which is located next to the Western Wall, and only from 7:30 to 10:30 am and then for another hour at midday (12:30 to 1:30 pm).

One last option is to start the day from the Mount of Olives. After seeing the sites there (Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster), you can walk down to Gethsemane and continue to the Lion’s Gate. This is the itinerary I suggest in my booklet.

When it comes to the Old City, don’t worry about missing out on any of the sites. The Old City is small, and all the sites are located close to one another.

The four quarters of the Old City

Two thousand years ago, Jerusalem was a Jewish city. 1,100 years ago, Jerusalem was a Muslim city and 900 years ago Jerusalem was a Christian city.

It’s only in the last 500 years that Jerusalem has been the way it is today, divided into four quarters: the Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Armenian quarters. Each quarter is laid out around or close to its most important site. The Jewish quarter is next to the Western Wall and the Temple Mount; the Muslim quarter is next to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Christian quarter is located around the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Armenian quarter is laid out around Saint James Cathedral.

I have made so many videos about this church. Many people fail to understand that there are actually two sites inside the church: Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified, and the tomb of Jesus.

The Western Wall has become a symbol of what connects the Jews to Jerusalem. It is such a well-known symbol that many people don’t realize that other parts of the Western Wall can be seen and that it is not a part of the Jewish Temple itself. All the details are in this video, taken from my app.

The Temple Mount is huge – it takes up one-fifth of the Old City. This is the holiest site for Jews, as this is where the two temples once stood. Today it is also the third holiest site for Muslims, and the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are located where the Jewish temple once stood. There are ten gates leading into the Temple Mount, but non-Muslims can only enter from one entrance, which is located next to the Western Wall and only open for limited hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 – 10:30 am and for one hour at noon (12:30 – 1:30 pm). Visitors must dress modestly, and no Jewish and Christian symbols are allowed (this includes bibles).

Mount Zion is located outside the Old City, but historically it is part of it. It is a tiny mountain, much smaller than the Mount of Olives, and you get there by exiting the Old City from the Zion Gate. The main sites here are the Room of the Last Supper, the Tomb of King David, the Dormition Abbey, and smaller sites like the Chamber of the Holocaust, which was Israel’s first Holocaust museum, and the grave of Oskar Schindler in the Catholic cemetery.

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Jerusalem Old City Walking Tour

Our self-guided walking tour in the old city of jerusalem will take you to narrow picturesque alleys, famous sites, and interesting, lesser-known historical landmarks., main landmarks on the ths tour, christian quarter:.

• Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
• Armenian Ceramic Center
• Monastery of Saint Saviour
• Ethiopian Patriarchate
• El-Khanqa Street
• Church of the Redeemer (Viewpoint)

JEWISH QUARTER:

• Hurba Synagogue
• Wohl Archaeological Museum
• The Burnt House
• Western Wall

WALKING TOUR MAP

Starting from Jaffa Gate of the Old City, we’ll step back into time and walk through the different Quarters of the Old City. Taking in the indescribable energy that every corner presents, we’ll visit the sites most holy to all three religions.

Price from: 140 NIS

Details & Booking

The tour is not circular. It starts at the Jaffa Gate and ends at the Dung Gate near the Western Wall. Both locations are well served by public transportation , and it is the recommended way to make the tour.

If you prefer to arrive by car , you can park at the nearby Mamila Parking. At the end of the tour Return by bus, or walk back about 10-15 minutes.

The old city of Jerusalem is roughly a square of 1 Kilometer by 1 Kilometer surrounded by the city walls. It is hard to imagine it today, but Until around 1850, this area was the entire city of Jerusalem. Only in the 2nd half of the 19th-century residents started to move gradually outside the city walls .

The Ottomans built the current walls and most of the buildings that exist today during the 16th century. However, these “modern” structures are built above ancient foundations. The streets we walk in today are about 2-4 meters above the Roman city and about 4-8 meters above the first-temple period city. The Old City is divide into the Muslim, Christian, Armenian and Jewish Quarters. This division evolved gradually, and the current designations that are common nowadays were introduced only in the 19th century.

Armenian Quarter : The Quarter is surrounded by its own walls and forms a private enclosed area of the Armenian Monastery. It is the smallest Quarter, with a population of about 3,000.

Muslim Quarter : It is the largest one with a population of about 30,000. It is mostly an impoverished and densely populated residential neighborhood with less historic buildings and tourist attractions. However, part of the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) passes through it, and the Western Wall Tunnel (Highly recommended visit) passes under it.

Jewish Quarter: Its origin is from the same period as the rest of the old city. However, in 1948, when the Jordanians occupied the eastern part of Jerusalem, they demolished and burned down most of the house and 58 synagogues , including the 700-year-old Hurva synagogue that was destroyed and desecrated. The Quarter stayed in this state for 19 years, until the IDF liberated Jerusalem in 1967. Shortly afterward, Israel started to restore the Jewish Quarter. Because most of the buildings are new (After 1967), the area looks “White” compared to the other parts of the old city. The restoration project presented a rare opportunity for archeological excavations. Thanks to that, today, we can visit parts of ancient Jerusalem under the current modern streets.

Our tour focuses on the Christain and Jewish Quarters . In the Christain quarter, we will visit famous landmarks. However, in between, we will walk in small streets, visit hidden courtyards, unique shops, and fantastic viewpoints of the old city. In the Jewish Quarter, we will explore the 2,000 years old remains of ancient Jerusalem, hidden underneath the modern streets.

OLD CITY SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Christian quarter section map.

On this guided day tour of Judea and Samaria we will take you to three of the highlights of the region – Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah. With thorough information provided by a local guide.

Price from: 400 NIS

Latin Patriarchate: Admission: Free. Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, 08:00-14:00 Location: St. Peter street . Direction: Just after you enter the city through Jaffa gate, Turn left to the Latin Patriarchate Street and walk until the intersection with St. Peter Street.

The center of the Catholic Church is located in the Vatican state in Rome. The Pope’s representative in Jerusalem is known as the “ Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem “, and his job is to safeguard the interests of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land. The first appointment of a Latin patriarch in the Land of Israel was in 1099 AD. But when the Crusaders were expelled from the land, the Latin Patriarchate also ceased to exist. In the mid-19th century, the Catholic Church noticed the weakness of the Ottomans and renewed its representation in Jerusalem after more than 550 years. Giuseppe Valerga was the first Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem in modern times. He wanted to show the wealth and splendor of the Catholic Church also in Jerusalem. The result is a large cathedral paved with marble, decorated with dozens of sculptures and filled with countless paintings. In 1872, Vallerga inaugurated the Cathedral, which is still one of the most impressive in Israel.

Armenian pottery started to develop in the 11th century. However, Armenian ceramics reached unprecedented levels of finesse and originality during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, when many Armenian families operated workshops in Turkey, and contributed to decorating palaces and mansions. Armenian traditional ceramic artists arrived at Jerusalem in 1919 to help replace the centuries-old glazed tiles decorating the Dome of the Rock. The task was never completed, but the tradition rooted in Jerusalem. Jerusalem is now the only place in the world where traditional Armenian pottery is still preserved. The Sandrouni workshop is one of the finest spots to explore and buy original Armenian handmade pottery. (Watch out for the many imitations on display in the market streets!)

Saint Saviors Convent: Admission: Free. Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 08:00-17:00 Location: St Francis street . Direction: Exit the ceramic shop and Walk down on Ahim Street about 100 meters and turn left to St. Francis street. After a few meters, you will see the entrance to the convent on your left.

Saint Savoirs is the headquarter of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land ( Custodia Terræ Sanctæ ). Saint Francis founded the order in 1209. Its mission is to guard “the grace of the Holy Places” of the Holy Land and the rest of the Middle East, as well as pilgrims visiting them, on behalf of the Catholic Church. Their presence in Jerusalem is traced back to 1217. The original building built in 1559 with the aid of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent . However, the current Church and Convent were constructed in 1885 with funding provided by the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph during his visit to Jerusalem in 1869. The compound houses today also a Catholic school, printing press, and an organ workshop. In 2017 Pope Francis renewed the mandate to “Preserve the Holy Places of Christianity in the Holy Land” in commemoration of the 800th anniversary of Franciscan presence. In addition to the historical importance, the impressive Basilica hall (30 X 12 meters), is well worth a visit.

The building we are about to visit is from 1890. It was built to serve as the administrative center of the community. At the heart of the complex is a small church decorated in a traditional Ethiopian style. The church floor is carpeted, and its ceiling is full of colorful illustrations featuring characters and stories from the New Testament. You can have a look at an ancient 400-year-old book with texts from the Old and a New Testament. The book is written in the Geez language (Ethiopian holy language). After the tour of the small church, go up to the roof of the building for a fantastic panorama of the old city.

• Residential Courtyard: Look for house number 44 on your left and enter through the small door into an internal courtyard. It is a fine example of a residential compound. In the center of the yard, there is a water well and the surrounding houses feature door lintels painted in bright blue color. Wander around and absorb the tranquil atmosphere.
•   Elia Photo Service: Continue a few minutes further on El Khanqa street until house number 12, and you will see on your right an entrance to a small photo shop filled with historical B&W photos and unique nostalgic atmosphere.

The interior of the Church of the holy sepulcher and its surrounding is one of the most crowded tourist spots in Jerusalem (We do not cover it on this tour since it is very well covered elsewhere). The main reason to visit the Church of the Redeemer is the fantastic panorama of the old city from the top of its 40 meters tower. It is the best view of the old city since you are high above the street right in the middle of the old city (All other high locations are around the old city and not inside!).

The Church was built between 1893 and 1898. Its cornerstone was laid by the Prussian prince Frederick III as part of his visit to the Middle East to participate in the opening of the Suez Canal. The land was given as a gift to the Prussian heir by the Ottoman Sultan. The church was inaugurated in  1898, during the visit of the German Emperor Wilhelm II, his son, and Empress Augusta Victoria. On one of the walls of the prayer hall hangs a sign in the German language that tells of the dedication and establishment of the house. There are also archeological excavations and a museum in the church. You can find all the details on the excellent official website .

The Muristan is a complex of streets and shops that cover a square area spanning between the holy sepulcher and David Street (The main street of the old city leading to Jaffa gate). The market in the form as we know it today was established in 1903 by the Greek-Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. At the center of the market, there is an ornamental water fountain , which was built to mark 25 years of the rule of the Ottoman sultan Abdul Hamid. The name “Muristan” comes from the Persian word for a hospital  (Bim?rest?n).  It originates from the fact that during the crusader period, a complex of a Church and hospital was operating here. However, the history of the area starts as early as the days of Christ. You can learn more about it at the Museum in the Church of the Redeemer . Ramble through the streets and the shops and make your way towards David street and the Jewish Quarter where the tour continues.

JEWISH QUARTER SECTION MAP

The Cardo was the “Main Street” of Jerusalem during the Roman period. Nowadays, it is an underground street under the new houses of the Jewish Quarter. The Northern half of the street (Where we enter), was turned into a modern shopping street with fancy boutique shops. The Southern half is a restoration of the Roman street. As we walk, we can peek through peers in the pavement down to remnants from ancient Jerusalem (700 BCE), while above us are the modern, residential houses.

Hurba Synagogue: Admission: 20 NIS. Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday 09:00-17:00, Friday 09:00-13:00. Location: HaYehudim Street #89 . Direction: Go up from the Cardo street, turn left, and after a few meters, you will be in front of the Synagogue.

The Hurba synagogue was built in 1864 and served as the most important Ashkenazy synagogue in the land of Israel. It became a center for religious and national revival for jews in the land of Israel. Around the synagogue, some of the most important institutions of the Ashkenazi community in Jerusalem were concentrated: Yeshiva, Court, Charity institutions and religious schools. In 1948, when the Jordanian army conquered the Jewish Quarter they demolished it with explosives. Only in 2010 (after 62 years), the synagogue was restored and reopened. The design was based on testimonials and old pictures. Most of the eastern wall is the original wall from 1864. It was not painted and therefore, creates a sharp contrast to the modern white walls. Besides visiting the impressive synagogue hall, there are interesting archeological findings from the second-temple period and Byzantine period in the basement floor. Round up the visit with an excellent 360° panorama from the balcony that encircles the dome.

You descend again from the street level, down to 2,000 years old history. The excavations that took place here after 1967 revealed a magnificent residential quarter from the second-temple period. The findings include mosaic floors, water wells, Mikveh , and warehouses.

The “burnt house” is a second-temple period residential building that was also discovered during the excavations in the Jewish Quarter. Unlike the Wohl Museum, this house was found in ruins and with fire signs. The tiny museum presents the fascinating findings discovered in the excavations. However. the remains are disappointing compared with the display in the Whol Museum. The main attraction is an Audio-Visual show. The movie describes life in Jerusalem during the months preceding the destruction of the second temple.

• Put a note with your wishes between the stones of the Western Wall.
• Visit the Western Wall tunnels.
• Visit the Temple Mount.
• Visit the City of David.

Written by Erez Speiser

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Via Dolorosa

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About this place

Plan your visit.

• Open Times: The Old City and Via Dolorosa are open 24/7. Specific chapels and churches along the way have their own open hours: Church of the Holy Sepulchre 05:00-20:00 April-September and 05:00-19:00 October-March. 1st Station of the Cross Madrasa al-Omariya school after 14:00. 2nd Station of the Cross, Terra Sancta Museum Monday-Saturday 09:00-noon. 2nd Station, Church of the Condemnation 08:00-18:00
• Prices : Free!
• Average Visit Duration: 30-90 minutes.
• Popular Times: The Old City never but you should try to visit during daylight hours when the chapels, stalls, and churches are open. Some places may be closed on Friday afternoon and Saturday.
• Special Events: Every Friday at 15:00 Franciscan friars lead a procession along the Via Dolorosa starting from the first station. On Good Friday the procession is particularly impressive with chanting, prayer, and a multitude of devoted Christians bearing crosses and holding palm fronds.
• Via Dolorosa Tours: Many J erusalem tours will take you there; Join a tour of the Old City or a Christian tour of Jerusalem to see the Via Dolorosa. There are also special tours during Easter that take you along the procession route. 

Perhaps the most famous walk through the Old City of Jerusalem is along the Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross, or the Way of Suffering - in the footsteps of Jesus . This route stretches for 600 meters and takes you along several lanes, through street markets, past interesting eateries, and souvenir stores.

But apart from being an interesting way to see the Old City, the Via Dolorosa has deep religious and historic significance. According to tradition, this is the route Jesus took bearing his cross from his trial to his crucifixion at Calvary. 

Not only will you be retracing Christ’s steps, and seeing the lanes of the Old City, but you can also discover hidden gems along the way. Most people don’t know that the Via Dolorosa has several fascinating and unique chapels tucked away behind unassuming doors in the stone walls that flank the streets. And at the end of the Via Dolorosa, you’ll reach the iconic Church of the Holy Sepulchre , the most sacred Christian site in the world. 

Where is the Via Dolorosa and How Do You Get to It?

There are many Christian holy sites in Israel , and Via Dolorosa goes through several of them. It run through the Muslim Quarter and Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. It is not one street, but rather a route that travels along several streets. The walled city has several gates where you can enter and eventually find the Via Dolorosa. But the closest gate to the start of the Via Dolorosa is Lions Gate. Stations 1-7 are in the Muslim Quarter, and the rest are in the Christian Quarter.

Various religious bodies, archaeologists, and experts disagree about the exact starting point of the route. Some biblical scholars believe that the judgment of Jesus most likely took place outside the Antonia Palace, which no longer exists, and where the Umariya School now stands. Others suggest that it took place at Herod’s Palace near the Tower of David. It is best to look at the Via Dolorosa as an approximation of Jesus’ route and as a tradition rather than a precise map of his movements.

History of the Via Dolorosa

Via Dolorosa is not mentioned by name in the Bible but the First Testament does describe Jesus bearing his cross from his judgment before Pontius Pilot to the site of his crucifixion. The Bible describes several moments where Jesus stopped or fell as he made his way to Calvary and these moments are commemorated by the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa. But not all the stations are mentioned in the Bible. Several of the stations (3, 4, 6, 7, 9,13)  are based on tradition rather than events described in the Bible.

Christian pilgrims first started following the Via Dolorosa in the Byzantine Era. It became part of the Holy Thursday procession that started on the Mount of Olives , entered the city, and proceeded to the Holy Sepulchre. The route altered several times over the next few centuries as people argued about where exactly the route started. From 1350 to 1517 Franciscan friars conducted tours of the Via Dolorosa, but in the reverse direction, starting at the Holy Sepulcher and ending at Pilate’s house. 

In 1517 they began walking the route in the same direction as Jesus had done. Over the next few years, the church published various guides for pilgrims which expanded on the biblical text that described Jesus’ walk to Calvary. Only then were Stations of the Cross commemorated, and the version of the route we see today was slowly formed, although there were a number of opinions about what route exactly Christ followed. 

What to See on the Via Dolorosa

There are 14 Stations of the Cross where Jesus paused or stopped as he walked along the Via Dolorosa to Calvary. Nine stations are on the Via Dolorosa and the last five are inside the Holy Sepulchre Church. The Stations of the Cross on the Via Dolorosa are marked by a round metal plaque attached to the wall bearing the number of the station in Roman numerals. On the ground is a semi-circle of paving stones.

1st Station of the Cross - Sanctuary of the Condemnation of Jesus 

Located about 300m from Lions Gate, It is located inside the Madrasa al-Omariya school. Entrance to the school is only possible after 14:00, or on Friday or Saturday when the children are not at school. It is best to visit between 15:00 and 17:00. (Matthew 27, 11-14)

2nd Station of the Cross - Jesus takes up the cross

Located across from the first station, in the Monastery of Flagellation. Pro Tip: You can enter the monastery from 08:00-18:00 or 17:00 in winter. Enter the Chapel of the Flagellation which commemorates where the Roman guards put a crown of thorns on Jesus’ head and mocked him as the king of the Jews. Across the courtyard of the monastery compound is the Chapel of the Imposition of the Cross.

It is a modern chapel built on the remains of an earlier 11th-century church. The monastery is also home to the Terra Sancta Museum where there is a multimedia show about the Via Dolorosa and a display of archaeological findings. The museum is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-noon, and there is a small entrance fee. (Matthew 27. 27-30)

3rd Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the first time under the weight of the cross

After making a sharp left onto Al-Wad Street you’ll come to the third station. This is the site of the Polish Biblical Archaeological Museum. You can enter the small Armenian church that marks this station. Above the entrance is a stone relief depicting the scene.  Pro Tip:  Opposite the third station is one of the few public toilets you’ll find along the route.

4th Station of the Cross - Mary meets Jesus

Adjacent to the third station is the place where Jesus met his mother. (Until 2008 this station was commemorated about 25 meters further down the street). See the Armenian Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Spam. Pro Tip: This church is not always open but if it is you can enter and see a Byzantine mosaic with two footprints commemorating where Mary may have stood.

5th Station of the Cross - Simon of Cyrene is forced to help Jesus carry the cross

The Romans picked someone out of the crowd, Simon of Cyrene, and ordered him to help Jesus who was by now beaten, tired, and near collapsing. On the wall is a handprint believed to be where Jesus leaned against the wall. The building is not 2000 years old but the piece of stone bearing the handprint is said to be from the original building. The Franciscan Chapel of Simon of Cyrene lies behind the walls, housed in the first Franciscan house in Jerusalem dating back to 1229. (Mark 13:21/Luke 23:26)

6th Station of the Cross - Veronica wiped Jesus’ face

Veronica was one of Jesus’ followers, and she saw Jesus going past her house. His face was dirty and bleeding. She came out of her house and wiped his face with a piece of cloth. After he had moved on she discovered that an impression of his face had been left on the cloth. The cloth turned out to have miraculous properties and could cure anyone who touched it. Today it is in the Vatican. The Greek Catholic (Melkite) Church of Saint Veronica stands at this station. A piece of pillar is embedded in the wall of a house that bridges the street. 

7th Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the second time

The chapel that marks this station is usually closed but try the door, and you might get lucky. Inside is an original column from the ancient Roman Cardo Mazimus (the main street) that once ran through Hadrian’s city called Aelia Capitolina. A 13th-century tradition holds that this was where Jesus left the city walls on his way to Calvary that would have stood outside the city at that time.

8th Station of the Cross - Here the women of Jerusalem wept for Jesus

In Jesus’ lifetime, this spot would have been outside the city walls. As you approach this station you’ll pass the German hospice of Saint John where you can see a Maltese cross on the wall, and you’ll pass the Greek Convent of Saint Charalambos where the wall bears a Latin cross and the words “Jesus Christ conquers” in Greek. (Luke 23:27-31) 

9th Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the third time

To get to the ninth station you need to go back from the eighth station and turn right on to Souq Khan al-Zeit. After about 100 meters on your right will be a flight of stone steps. At the top of the steps turn left along a winding lane and after about 80 meters you’ll find a Roman pillar encased in the wall of the Coptic Patriarchate. (don’t worry there are clear signs and crowds of tourists all going in the same direction). The area is a Coptic compound and is on the roof of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. You will also see where a community of Ethiopian Christians has taken up residence on the rooftop. Pro Tip: At the end of the street to the right is an entrance that will lead you down to the Helene Cistern. It is a real hidden gem, seeped in legends. From here there is a passageway to the courtyard in front of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Stations of the Cross inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Stations of the Cross that are inside the church are not marked by plaques but they include the 10th station where Jesus was undressed; the 11th station where Jesus was placed on the cross; the 12th station where Jesus died on the cross; the 13th station where Jewsis was taken down off the cross, and the 14th station where he was placed in the tomb. 

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Dual Narrative Tour of the Old City | Jerusalem Tour

Jerusalem is undoubtedly among the most contended pieces of real estate in the world. In a constant tug-of-war between different religions and ethnic groups, the land is a volcano of tension- ready to erupt at any moment. As an outsider looking in, it can seem impossible to see a clear understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Each and every one of us is encircled by an endless stream of biased media. However, MEJDI Tours offers a unique opportunity for those who want the full story: a dual narrative tour of the Old City of Jerusalem guided by both an Israeli and a Palestinian tour guide. 

The Dual Narrative Tour of the Old City of Jerusalem was guided by Alex, an Israeli Jew from London, and Nabil a Palestinian Christian who grew up in the Old City of Jerusalem. Symbolically, the tour kicks off at Damascus Gate, which, Nabil asserts, is mostly used by Palestinians due to its accessibility to East Jerusalem: the Arab sector of Jerusalem. As such, Damascus gate has become a symbol of Palestinian national struggle and acts as a main “flash point” for Palestinian protest in times of tension. 

Entering the Old City, Alex joked that he “teleported” us to Temple Mount, a holy site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. Alex and Nabil take turns highlighting the importance of Temple Mount to Judaism and Islamic faith. For Jews, it is believed to be the location of the first two Jewish Temples and where God is most present, making Temple Mount the holiest site in Judaism. For Muslims on the other hand, the Mount is considered the third holiest site to pray. Temple Mount is the site of one of the three Sacred Mosques of Islam, and where Prophet Muhammad ascended to the divine presence of God. While we were on the Temple Mount, Nabil introduced us to Al-Aqsa Mosque, which was a truly unique experience for me since the mosque can only be entered by Muslims. We also got an inside look at the beautiful gold-plated Dome of the Rock: the home of a piece of Mount Moriah. According to the Jews, Mount Moriah was the location of the sacrifice of Isaac, Abraham’s only son. Muslims have a different belief about Mount Moriah, however. The Quran alleges that Mount Moriah was located close to Mecca, likely in Saudi Arabia, and was where Abraham sacrificed his son Ishmael. The Temple Mount as a whole is a major point of tension between the Islamic and Jewish religions, not just because of their conflicting beliefs but also because non-Muslims are prohibited from praying there.

Alex and Nabil next took us to the Western Wall, also known as the Kotel. While the Kotel isn’t technically the holiest site for the Jews, it is the closest place to the Temple Mount where they are allowed to pray, so over time it has become an important site in Judaism. To adapt to the times of Covid, there were many tents put up at the Wall to divide everyone. This is an unprecedented sight to see at the Kotel; normally Jews crowd at the front of the wall, everyone trying to get as close as possible. Alex highlighted multiple different Jewish customs that occur at the wall, such as traditional dress, the division of men and women, the kissing of the wall’s stone, and the tradition of sticking notes in the cracks of the wall. 

Growing up Jewish, I’ve only been taught Jewish history and Jewish customs and traditions. My knowledge of the Islamic religion was extremely limited. I had only received a part of the story, and I know I am not alone in that sentiment. While some remain closed-minded to other religions, cultures, and groups of people, MEJDI’s tour accomplishes something so powerful and so rare: it unites opposing voices and creates a fuller narrative.

Passover 2024: Fun activities to do in Jerusalem

It’s up to you to choose which activities your family will enjoy. whatever you do, you’ll be sure to have fun in and around jerusalem this passover.

Birkat Kohanim – Western Wall

• When : Thursday April 25, at 9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.
• Price : Free
• FIJ Tip : Plan to walk into the Old City and to walk back.

Holiday-themed Festivals & Special Events

Spring festival at ein yael.

• When : Wednesday April 24 & Thursday April 25, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday April 26, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Price : Family ticket (five immediate family members) NIS 325; adults NIS 68; seniors NIS 55; disabled NIS 40; security services, reservists & evacuated families NIS 28.
• Details : [email protected]

Join Yonina on a musical walking tour. (credit: Yonina)

Passover musical tour of jerusalem with yonina.

• When : Thursday April 25, from 10 a.m.-noon.
• Price : Adults NIS 120; children NIS 60.
• Details : [email protected]

Passover at Kol HaOt

• When : Thursday April 25, at 4 p.m. (guided gallery tour), 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. (Singing Experience). Talk with artists, Wednesday April 24 at 11 a.m. Guided tours Wednesday April 24 at 4 p.m. (Hebrew), 4:30 p.m. (English), Thursday, April 25, 12 noon & 4:30 p.m. (English), 12:30 & 4 p.m. (Hebrew), Friday April 26, 11 a.m. (in Hebrew), 11:30 a.m. (in English). Gallery opening times Wednesday April 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday April 25, 12 noon – 7 p.m., Friday April 26, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m..
• Price : Singing Experience & Gallery Talk. Individual ticket NIS 25; group ticket (5 people) NIS 100. Daily guided tours throughout Hol Hamoed. Free. You just need to pre-register.
• Details : [email protected]

Ancient Shilo

• When : Wednesday April 24 & Thursday April 25, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Price : Private tours NIS 450; individual tickets NIS 39; children & students (5-18 years) and seniors, NIS 35.
• Details : [email protected]

An Amazing Race

• When : Friday April 26, from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Price : NIS 100 per person
• Details : [email protected]

Mimouna Celebrations

• When : Monday April 29. Starts an hour after the end of the holiday.

Holiday-themed Tours & Workshops

Passover tours at the israel museum.

• When : Private tours throughout Hol Hamoed at a time of your choice. Public tour Wednesday April 24, from 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m.
• Price : Public tour NIS 55-NIS 65; private family tours start at NIS 1,300.
• Details : [email protected]

Celebration at the Farm in the Ben Himnon Valley

• When : Wednesday April 24 and Thursday April 25 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., and Friday April 26 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Details : [email protected]

Elijah’s Cup Glass-Blowing Workshop

• When : Private workshops throughout Hol Hamoed at a time of your choice.
• Price : NIS 680 per couple. Each additional participant is NIS 220.
• Details : [email protected]

Sun-Printed Matzah Covers & Afikoman Bags

• When : Private workshops at a time of your choice.
• Price : NIS 250 per person (3 people minimum).
• Details : [email protected]

Make your own artisanal Seder plate

• Price : $250 (NIS 875) and up (depending on what design you choose)
• Details : [email protected]

Outside Jerusalem

Matzah making at meshek48, kibbutz rosh tzurim.

• When : Sunday, April 21 (schedule directly with Devorah) 
• Prices : NIS 100 per person (open workshop); NIS 2,000 (private workshop)
• Details : [email protected]

Kakadu Passover Family Festival, Ella Valley

• When : Wednesday through Friday, April 24-26 at 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.
• Price : Minimum NIS 60 per person
• Details : [email protected]

The Ten Plagues at the Biblical Museum of Natural History, Beit Shemesh

• When : Throughout Hol Hamoed
• Price : Adults NIS 50; children NIS 40 
• Details : [email protected]

Elijah’s Cup Judaica Wood Workshop, Kfar Etzion, Gush Etzion

• When: Private workshops throughout Hol Hamoed at a time of your choice. Ask about open workshops.
• Price: NIS 2,200 for a private workshop. NIS 280 per person for an open workshop. Reservations required.
• Details: [email protected]

Glass-Fused Seder Plates, Moshav Mevo Horon

• Price : NIS 160 per person (three people minimum).
• Details : [email protected]

Resin Art, Beit Shemesh

• When : Schedule your session at a time that suits you.
• Price : Starts at NIS 125 per person (depending on the project).
• Details : [email protected]

Guided Tours of Hebron

• When : Ask about the special schedule for Passover tours
• Price : $50 (NIS 190) per person. Free for kids under age 5.
• Details : [email protected]

Other Activities

Hop-on, hop-off bus tours.

• When: Daily (including Hol Hamoed) between 10 a.m.-4 p.m., except Friday, Shabbat, and Jewish holidays.
• Price: Adults NIS 107; children (aged 5-15) NIS 90; seniors NIS 95; free for children under age 5.
• Details: [email protected]

Passover at the Jerusalem Cinematheque

• When : April 21 – May 5. Check times of individual screenings.
• Price : From NIS 20 – NIS 50 per person
• Details : [email protected]

EZ Raiders & Bike Rentals

• When : Daily throughout Hol Hamoed
• Price : 1.5 hour EZ Raider tours NIS 299 (drivers aged 16+); children NIS 150 (3-15); 2.5 hour bike tours NIS 299. 
• Details : [email protected]

The Tisch Family Biblical Zoo

• When: Sunday, April 14 – Monday, April 29. Weekdays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fridays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Erev Chag, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., chol hamoed, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Erev Seventh Day Chag, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Price : Family Tickets (4+ people): NIS 120, all other tickets range from NIS NIS 30 – NIS 71.
• Details : [email protected]

The Gottesman Family Israel Aquarium

• When :  Erev Chag, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Chag, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Chol Hamoed Wednesday & Thursday, April 24 & 25, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, April 26, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shabbat April 27, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday April 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. & Monday, April 29, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Price : Family Tickets (4+ people): NIS 120, all other tickets range from NIS 30 – 65 NIS.
• Details : [email protected]

Dig-for-a-Day Archaeology Experience

• When : Daily throughout Hol Hamoed (check times & availability online)
• Price : Public dig: Adults NIS 95; children (5-18 years old) NIS 72; mixed group (minimum 20 people) NIS 67 
• Details : [email protected]

The Time Elevator

• Price : NIS 54
• Details : [email protected]

Climbing Wall

• When : Daily throughout Hol Hamoed.
• Price : NIS 45 – NIS 65 per person
• Details : [email protected]

Jerusalem Ropes Course at Ammunition Hill

• Price : Depends on the number of people. Private groups can be arranged.
• Details : [email protected]

Jerusalem Xtreme Paintball

• Price : Depends on activity
• Details : [email protected]

Hadara Ceramics

• Price : NIS 165 per person (2 hours); NIS 210 per person (3 hours)
• Details : [email protected]

Rave Mosaics

• Price : NIS 200 per person
• Details : [email protected]

Laughter Workshops

• Price : Varies depending on a number of factors. Contact Debbie for details.
• Details : [email protected]

Yvel Factory Tour, Mevaseret Zion

• When : Daily throughout Hol Hamoed, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Advance booking required.
• Price : Free for tourists with passports; NIS 25 for locals.
• Details : [email protected]

Genesis Land, outside Ma’aleh Adumim

• When : Daily, throughout Hol Hamoed.
• Price : Family package (ages 4+) NIS 105 per person; camel rides between NIS 35-NIS 55 per person.
• Details : [email protected]

Jeep Tours of the Judean Mountains

• When : Daily throughout Hol Hamoed. Pre-booking is required.
• Price : NIS 1,100 per jeep (seats 6-8 people) for 2 hours.
• Details : [email protected]

Horseback Riding & Pony Trails, Yishuv Yad Shmona

• Price : Contact Arik for prices
• Details : [email protected]

Dead Sea Bike Rides, Northern Dead Sea

• FIJ Tip : For families with younger children, ask about tandem and add-on options for babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers.
• When : Daily throughout Hol Hamoed. Registration required.
• Details : [email protected]

Mezuzah Making, Ma’aleh Adumim

• Price : NIS 120 – NIS 360 (depending on the size of the group)
• Details : [email protected]

Laser Tag, Northern Dead Sea

• When : 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily throughout Hol Hamoed.
• Price : Laser Tag (up to 15 people) NIS 1,800 for 1 hour. Ask about prices for other activities.
• Details : [email protected]

Galita Chocolate Workshop, Kibbutz Tzuba

• When : First-day festival eve, Monday, April 22 at 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday, April 26 at 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Chol Hamoed, Wednesday, April 24, and Thursday, April 25 at 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and the last-day festival eve, Sunday, April 28 at 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Price : NIS 109
• Details : [email protected]

Passover in Gush Etzion

The zomet institute, alon shvut.

• When : Wednesday April 24 & Thursday April 25 from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (last tour is at 4 p.m.).
• Price : Family ticket NIS 140 (immediate family); individual tickets NIS 35.
• Details : [email protected]

Caliber 3, Gush Etzion

• Price : Depends on chosen package.
• Details : [email protected]

Creative Crafts Café, Kfar Etzion, Gush Etzion

• When : Wednesday April 24 – Tuesday April 30 (check times for individual workshops)
• Price : Starts at NIS 50 per person (depending on activity).
• Details : [email protected]

Sheep-Herding & Cheese-Making Workshops at Kashuela

• When : Wednesday April 24 & Thursday April 25; schedule directly with the farm.
• Price : Cheese-making workshop NIS 40 per person (minimum 30 people). Sheep-herding workshop NIS 50 per person (minimum 30 people).
• Details : [email protected]

Night Trek to the Dead Sea

• When : Wednesday April 24 & Thursday April 25, from 9 p.m.-8 a.m.
• Price : NIS 175 per person

Trek the Jerusalem Trail

• When : Wednesday April 24 &/or Thursday April 25, from 6 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Price : One day NIS 65; both days NIS 120

Lantern Tour of the Russian Monastery

• When : Wednesday April 24 & Thursday April 25, from 7:30 p.m.-9:15 p.m.
• Price : Adults (18+) NIS 30; children (ages 3+) NIS 20

Guided Tours of Gush Etzion

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Middle East crisis — explained

The conflict between Israel and Palestinians — and other groups in the Middle East — goes back decades. These stories provide context for current developments and the history that led up to them.

Photos: Jerusalem's sacred crossroads endures in a time of war

Ayman Oghanna

Christians hold a candlelight procession in Jerusalem outside the Church of All Nations, also known as the Church of Gethsemane, on March 28. This year, Easter, Purim and Ramadan overlapped for the first time in three decades. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Christians hold a candlelight procession in Jerusalem outside the Church of All Nations, also known as the Church of Gethsemane, on March 28. This year, Easter, Purim and Ramadan overlapped for the first time in three decades.

JERUSALEM — Jewish revelers in a Purim parade pass protesters holding placards marking the days since hostages from Israel have been held by Hamas. Outside the church of Gethsemane, Christians clutching candles march after Mass on Maundy Thursday. At Damascus Gate, tens of thousands of Muslims step down stone slopes, carefully watched by Israeli security forces.

It is in Jerusalem where the ancient Jewish Temples stood, and billions of faithful believe Jesus was resurrected and the Prophet Muhammad ascended into paradise.

Amid the war in Gaza and tensions over access to major holy sites, this complex, ancient and diverse city that's central to Judaism, Islam and Christianity has remained largely peaceful.

"The present-day city contains so many religions, ethnic groups, ideologies, national identities ... all rubbing up against each other, but all very separate," says Rabbi Levi Weiman-Kelman, a former president of Rabbis for Human Rights, an Israeli organization. "Jerusalem holds out the promise of peace, of a shared space. I believe that God has called on all Jews, Christians and Muslims, Palestinians and Israelis ... to find a way to live together and share this holy city."

Over the centuries, Jerusalem has withstood invasions, sieges, attacks, division, reunification — and despite ongoing tensions, it endures as a city where people are able to practice and express their different and deeply held faiths, while adhering to strict rules and restrictions imposed on worship in this shared space.

Tension at Al-Aqsa Mosque is deepening with each day of the Israel-Hamas war

This spring, for the first time in three decades, Ramadan, Easter and Purim — holidays in Islam, Christianity and Judaism — all overlapped within a month-long period. With war raging in Gaza following the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel, fresh restrictions on Palestinians' access to holy sites, and powerful challenges to longstanding rules about Jewish prayer at the Al-Aqsa compound, there were fears that tensions might flare uncontrollably and ignite violence in Jerusalem.

But the holidays passed with few incidents. Here are images showing the city during a holy month, and some of the people living, visiting and worshiping there.

Orthodox Jews pray at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City on March 25. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Orthodox Jews pray at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City on March 25.

Demonstrators hold signs urging the government to reach a deal for release of hostages taken from Israel by Hamas-led militants on Oct. 7, as they and Israeli security forces watch a parade through Jerusalem for the Jewish holiday of Purim. Despite the war in Gaza, the city hosted an official Purim parade for the first time in more than 40 years, among muted crowds and protesters. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Demonstrators hold signs urging the government to reach a deal for release of hostages taken from Israel by Hamas-led militants on Oct. 7, as they and Israeli security forces watch a parade through Jerusalem for the Jewish holiday of Purim. Despite the war in Gaza, the city hosted an official Purim parade for the first time in more than 40 years, among muted crowds and protesters.

A float in a Purim parade in Jerusalem, March 25. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

A float in a Purim parade in Jerusalem, March 25.

Rabbi Levi Weiman-Kelman stands outside his synagogue in West Jerusalem on March 6. "No one religious tradition has a monopoly on truth. Every religious tradition has, at its core, a vision of peace for all humanity," Weiman-Kelman says. "We need each other to find a way to live together. Sadly, since Oct. 7, this dream feels further away than ever." Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Rabbi Levi Weiman-Kelman stands outside his synagogue in West Jerusalem on March 6. "No one religious tradition has a monopoly on truth. Every religious tradition has, at its core, a vision of peace for all humanity," Weiman-Kelman says. "We need each other to find a way to live together. Sadly, since Oct. 7, this dream feels further away than ever."

Jerusalem as seen from the Mount of Olives. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Jerusalem as seen from the Mount of Olives.

The Dome of the Rock on the Al-Aqsa compound before Friday prayers during Ramadan in Jerusalem, March 22. It is a sacred site in Islam where the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended into paradise. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

The Dome of the Rock on the Al-Aqsa compound before Friday prayers during Ramadan in Jerusalem, March 22. It is a sacred site in Islam where the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended into paradise.

Israeli security forces in the Old City of Jerusalem before Friday prayers during Ramadan, March 22. Israel has long ensured Al-Aqsa Mosque remains a Muslim place of worship, with Jews allowed to pray at the Western Wall. But Israel's far-right national security minister urged religious Jews to enter the Al-Aqsa compound in the last 10 days of Ramadan, which many feared would lead to violence. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Israeli security forces in the Old City of Jerusalem before Friday prayers during Ramadan, March 22. Israel has long ensured Al-Aqsa Mosque remains a Muslim place of worship, with Jews allowed to pray at the Western Wall. But Israel's far-right national security minister urged religious Jews to enter the Al-Aqsa compound in the last 10 days of Ramadan, which many feared would lead to violence.

Men prepare for Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa compound during Ramadan in Jerusalem. It is a sacred site in Islam, where the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended into paradise. Despite severe restrictions on Palestinians entering from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, more than 1.5 million worshipers visited the Al-Aqsa compound during the holy month of Ramadan, Jerusalem police said. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Men prepare for Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa compound during Ramadan in Jerusalem. It is a sacred site in Islam, where the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have ascended into paradise. Despite severe restrictions on Palestinians entering from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, more than 1.5 million worshipers visited the Al-Aqsa compound during the holy month of Ramadan, Jerusalem police said.

"Jesus was not born in Texas, he wasn't from Europe, he is not from Africa. He is from Palestine. Christianity started from Jerusalem," says Rafi Ghattas, a scout leader and coordinator for Palestinian Christian youth, in Jerusalem on March 28. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

"Jesus was not born in Texas, he wasn't from Europe, he is not from Africa. He is from Palestine. Christianity started from Jerusalem," says Rafi Ghattas, a scout leader and coordinator for Palestinian Christian youth, in Jerusalem on March 28.

A boy prepares palms while Christians hold a procession on the Mount of Olives outside Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

A boy prepares palms while Christians hold a procession on the Mount of Olives outside Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.

A woman lights a candle in the Tomb of the Virgin in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, March 24. The war in Gaza deterred many visitors and pilgrims from visiting Jerusalem during Easter. Palestinian Christians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank were among those affected by Israeli restrictions on Palestinian travel into Jerusalem. Men had to be age 55 and older, and women had to be 50 and over. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

A woman lights a candle in the Tomb of the Virgin in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, March 24. The war in Gaza deterred many visitors and pilgrims from visiting Jerusalem during Easter. Palestinian Christians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank were among those affected by Israeli restrictions on Palestinian travel into Jerusalem. Men had to be age 55 and older, and women had to be 50 and over.

Christians hold a procession on the Mount of Olives outside Jerusalem on Palm Sunday on March 24, commemorating the day that Christians believe Jesus entered Jerusalem and was greeted by followers waving palms. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

Christians hold a procession on the Mount of Olives outside Jerusalem on Palm Sunday on March 24, commemorating the day that Christians believe Jesus entered Jerusalem and was greeted by followers waving palms.

A woman kisses the Stone of Anointing on March 24, inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Christians believe the body of Jesus was prepared for burial. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

A woman kisses the Stone of Anointing on March 24, inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Christians believe the body of Jesus was prepared for burial.

An Orthodox Jew prays at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City on March 25. Above the Western Wall is the compound revered by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and by Jews as the Temple Mount. Ayman Oghanna for NPR hide caption

An Orthodox Jew prays at the Western Wall in Jerusalem's Old City on March 25. Above the Western Wall is the compound revered by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and by Jews as the Temple Mount.

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Home Page › Our tours › Themed tours, cultural heritage tours › Moscow Jewish Heritage Tour

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Moscow Jewish Heritage Tour

Today Moscow is the home of more than 250 000 Jews, six Synagogues, several Jewish universities, a number of Jewish community centers, history museums and many educational organizations.

Jewish Moscow tour gets you acquainted with the Heritage of Jews residing in Russia and the capital before the Revolution, in Soviet epoch as well as modern Russia.

10:00 – meet your guide at the hotel lobby or any other place upon your request

10:30-11:30 Choral Synagogue (metro station: Kitay Gorod)

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12:00- 13:30 Lubavichi Synagogue (metro station Tverskaya, Pushkinskaya )

Our next spot is Lubavichi Synagogue on Bolshaya Bronnaya street

The Chabad Lubavich Synagogue holds regular services which are mostly in Hebrew. You will find the establishment quite pleasing.

The tour is conducted by Spielberg journalist Svetlana, who interviews survivors of the Holocaust and works for Spielberg organization and Moscow synagogue. If you have time , we will be happy to show you the movies in English about Sobibor survivors. During the tour, you also will have a chance to talk to locals Jews who survived Soviet time in Moscow and experience new Jewish life in Moscow.

13:30-14:00 –Lunch break in Synagogue cafeteria

15:00- 16:00 Tour of JCC (+ Jewish medical center, Charity center, Kosher grocery store)

Next we will visit JCC ( Jewish community center) in Marina Roscha and museum of Tolerance and Jewish history.

JCC in Marina Roscha is a place that never rests, with multiple daily services, two kosher restaurants (one meat, one dairy), and a plethora of educational and social programs. The community is an eclectic mix of Russian Jews, both religious and secular, with a large number of Israelis and Anglos. JCC contains Orthodox synagogue, gym, dating club, concert hall, exhibitions of Jewish painters, etc. The neighborhood also has kosher grocery stores, publishing house, Jewish medical center called after Rambam, Charity center. You will have chance to see all the services provided by JCC and talk to local Jews who are happy to share their impression about their life in Russia after the USSR.

17:00-18:00 Museum of Tolerance and Jewish history (entrance fee is 400 RUB)

Our next stop is museum of Tolerance and Jewish history . http://www.jewish-museum.ru/en/timeline

The main goal of the Jewish Museum & Tolerance Center is to establish a creative, interactive platform for dialogue between different cultures.

Visitors with a couple of hours to spare are able to gain an intriguing overview of the Museum, but its innovative format is designed to provide whole families with an enjoyable and stimulating full day out. There is a Library, Museum Shop, Research; Centre, Conference Halls, Children’s Centre and Kosher Café, and the Museum will also stage temporary exhibitions and joint projects in conjunction with leading institutions from around the world.

Both youngsters and adults will be encouraged to discuss the relationship between different cultures and individuals.

Blending history, culture, education and the latest technology within a unique architectural setting, the Museum is set to become one of Moscow’s key cultural landmarks.

18:00 – back to hotel Tour cost: 200 USD

Day 2. 10:00 – meet your guide at the hotel lobby or any other place upon your request 11:00-12:30- Tour of the Museum of the Jewish History

Museum of the Jews’ History  (Dimano metro station) http://www.mievr.ru/page.html?id=25&lang=ENG

For the most part in our Museum the history of the part of Jewry that had fallen under in the power of the Russian crown after three partitions of Poland is represented. In everyday life culture, religious traditions, language, customs this group was genetically connected to Ashkenazi Jews – the European Jewry. This is the name of the Jews, migrated to Poland from Germany and North France in the Middle Ages. As Fate willed, they became the subjects of the Russian Empire, but they weren’t given any rights even the right to freedom of movement. The region of their traditional habitation that used to play an important economic role in the days of the Poland’s independence, became a distant province of Russia – the Pale of Settlement .

Today the exposition of the Museum may be conditionally divided on two parts: – traditional culture – prevalent forms of community existence, education, charity, particular features of everyday life, observance of religious directions, “sacred service” (decorating synagogues and religious items); to this part it should be needed to ascribe the collection representing traditions and culture of non Ashkenasi Jewish Communities to this part of the exposition; – historical processes – mutual relations between the Jews and the society and authorities, the Jewish contribution into economy, culture and science development, a Jewish experience of land utilization and an attempt of creation of Jewish Autonomy in the USSR.

13:00-13:30 Coffee break 14:00-16:30 Victory Park with Holocaust memorial + Holocaust Memorial Synagogue

The Holocaust Memorial Synagogue   is a synagogue located on Poklonnaya Hill in Moscow. It was built in 1998 to complement an Orthodox church and a mosque that are also part of the outdoor museum dedicated to Russia’s victory in World War II .

The building of the Temple of the Memory on Poklonnaya Gora, a flat hill in the West of Moscow, between the Setun River and another hill, was constructed and opened on September 1998 in Boris Yeltsin ‘s presence. The construction of the Temple of Memory was financed by the Russian Jewish Congress – a non-profit charitable fund and the largest secular organisation of Russian Jews. The Temple of memory architect was Moshe Zarhy (Zarhy Architects) from Israel. In the Holocaust Memorial Synagogue there is a hall with a balcony, the offices for the rabbi and a library. An exhibition about history of the Jewish people and the Holocaust was located in the building. The building is also used as a museum. The interior of the building was designed by Frank Meisler , too. Meisler created wall sculptures showing Jerusalem, the Twelve Tribes of Israel and the Five Books of Moses.

17:30 Back to Hotel

The most popular Jewish souvenir to take home is Jewish Matreshka doll.

Tour cost: 200USD

We take part in BBC series of documentaries "World's Busiest Cities"(Moscow)

Buy Tickets to the Bolshoi Theatre

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Interpreting and assistance at exhibitions and conferences, our garage ( vehicles+drivers), where to stay in moscow, what and where to eat in moscow, visa support, learning and discovery, our partners (trips to st.petersburg).

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Jerusalem – Moscow – St. Petersburg

ITINERARY OF PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND, MOSCOW & ST. PETERSBURG

14 – 27 June 2020

INFORMATION – SUBSCRIPTION

T.I.T.A. TRAVEL (Mrs. Fotini Tazoglou)

Tel.: +30/2310/656544

Fax: +30/2310/656513

Cel: +30/6948-089790

E-mail: [email protected]

Website:   www.tita-travel.com

PIRAEUS BANK ACCOUNT NO: IBAN GR18 0172 2710 0052 7105 4416 531

SWIFT : PIR8GRAA NAME: TAZOGLOU FOTEINI

Deposit of   …..  Until ….

F ull Payment until  : …..

Single Room   : extra …..

PRICE INCLUDES:

• Hotel Gloria in Jerusalem with Breakfast & dinner
• Hotel Ron Beach in Tiberias with Breakfast & dinner
• Hotel Vega Izmailovo 4 stars or similar in Moscow with Breakfast & dinner
• Hotel Park Inn Pulkovskaya 4 stars or similar in St. Petersburg with Breakfast & dinner
• Tour Leader during the whole trip / Pilgrimag
• Guidance to Jerusalem from Bishop Aristovoulos
• Local Guide in Moscow & St. Petersburg
• Entrance to all museums at Moscow & St. Petersburg
• Entrance to the Tomb of Lazaros.
• Entrance to the Holy Site of the Ascensio
• Transportation with Luxury buses according to itinerary.
• Local Mini Buses for transportation to Saint Sabba Monastery in Judean Desert.
• Mini Vans of 10 passengers for transportation to the top of Mount Tabor.
• Tips for the drivers, guides, hotel & restaurant employ
• Air tickets and airport taxes.
• Invitation for Visa for Russia
• Tickets for train from Moscow to St. Petersburg
• Tickets for tour by boat in the channels
• Cable car for Temptation Mountain

PRICE NOT INCLUDES:

• Anything optional / Lunches at the restaurants that are not covered by I.T.A

CANCELETION FEES:

• Cancelation until ….., is possible with the deposit returned to the custom
• Cancelation from ….. until ….., is possible without returning the deposit to the cus
• Cancelation after …., the customer must pay the whole payment for the trip for cancelation fees

IMPORTANT NOTE:

The Tour Leader & the Guide have the right, if there is a need for better service, to change the order of the itinerary or the times without removing any of the mentioned places.

             Your Passport must expire after …..

T.I.T.A. TRAVEL wishes you a pleasant trip and a Blessed Pilgrimage !

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Moscow Bike Tours

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Moscow Bike Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)