Visiting the Old City Of Jerusalem

My grand-father, or as we all called him in Hebrew Saba, passed away two weeks ago. He was 96 years old, lived a full happy life, and I am blessed to have had him for so long. With that, I am working through the sadness of losing someone that I was so close with, that loved me unconditionally, and gave me so much.

Toward the end of his life, my Saba did a lot of praying. A few times, I asked him what he is saying. Once he told me he was praying for peace in Israel "Shalom Al Yisrael". My Saba loved travelling, and archaeology, and so, as a healing for me I want to put together some of the trips we took together throughout my childhood and adulthood. There are so many, so this time, I'll just focus on The Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem :

Of course how could we not start with the holiest and most beautiful of places? Though I have lived in Jerusalem for many years, I never tire of walking through the ancient side streets of the Old City. Just the thought that for thousands of years, people have been walking these same streets is enough to give some perspective. I love finding new paths, peaking into the court yards of the beautiful stone homes, breathing the smell of freshly baked pitas, and sitting in the sun for a cup of coffee in the Cardo.

Certainly, we would visit the Wailing Wall; this is the outer Western Wall of what was the Second Holy Temple. It is said to be the Holiest site. Though I believe G-d hears us wherever we are, I really think you can feel the spirit of G-d specifically here. I don't know if it is the power of everyone's prayers or the place itself, but on my search for spirituality, it is my favorite.

Saba loved the Wohl Museum. Located in the Jewish Quarter, the Whol Museum is an entire neighborhood, from the time of the Second Temple, or the era of Herod. This Herodian Quarter lies underground and provides a peak into mansions from the period, discovered during archaeological digs. In addition to seeing the actual layout of rooms, which in itself is incredible, on display is glassware, frescoes, mosaics; it is as though you have traveled in time.

Along the Wailing Wall is the Western Wall Tunnels. You must reserve a tour in advance. (It is free, but you need armed security with you. Don't let this frighten you, it is very worth while). On this tour you go to a part of the Wall that is not exposed to the outside, stand just 90 meters from where it is believed was the holiest of holy rooms in the Second Temple, walk along a street dating back to the days of the Temple, and just feel.

On the other side of the Wall is the Davidson Center and Archaeological Park. Here there are incredible excavations, stretched over a very big area, where you can see almost the entire history of the Holy City of Jerusalem, as well as detailed exhibits and maps. There are so many other places I would love to tell you about, but trying not to make this too long. Hope to continue it soon.