Exploring Jerusalem felt like walking through the pages of history. Verna and I arrived with excitement, knowing we were about to immerse ourselves in one of the most sacred and historically rich cities in the world. The city is a tapestry of cultures, religions, and stories, and each step revealed something extraordinary.
We started our day at the Old City, entering through the Jaffa Gate, one of its main entrances.
The ancient walls surrounding the city are awe-inspiring, and we couldn’t wait to dive into the maze-like streets. Divided into four quarters—Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian—the Old City is a blend of faiths and traditions.
Our first stop was the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, one of the last remaining walls of the Second Temple, in the Jewish Quarter. Seeing the massive limestone blocks of this sacred site was profoundly moving. Watching people praying, leaving handwritten notes tucked into the crevices, and reflecting on the centuries of devotion this wall has witnessed left us in quiet reverence.
From there, we headed to the nearby Temple Mount, home to the Dome of the Rock, with its stunning gold-plated dome gleaming under the sun. Non-Muslims can’t enter the mosque, but the exterior itself is breathtaking, with intricate blue tiles and Arabic calligraphy. Standing in this sacred space, shared by multiple faiths, was a powerful reminder of Jerusalem’s significance.
Our next destination was the Christian Quarter, where we walked along the Via Dolorosa, retracing the steps of Jesus’ final journey. The Stations of the Cross are marked along the route, each telling a part of the story.
Following the cobblestone path, we reached the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, also known as the Church of the Resurrection, believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. The church is an incredible mix of architecture and religious devotion, with ornate altars, ancient mosaics, and the Tomb of Christ. We joined other visitors in quiet reflection, feeling the spiritual weight of the place.
As we entered the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, our eyes were drawn immediately to the Stone of Unction near the entrance. Surrounded by pilgrims kneeling in prayer, the marble slab is said to mark the spot where Jesus’ body was prepared for burial. Verna and I quietly touched the smooth stone, feeling the weight of centuries of devotion and reverence in that single moment. The flickering candlelight and scent of incense made the experience even more profound, as we stood in awe of this sacred site.
For lunch, we ventured into the bustling Muslim Quarter. The vibrant markets, or souks, were alive with energy, filled with the aromas of spices, freshly baked bread, and grilling kebabs. We found a small café and enjoyed falafel wraps, hummus, and mint tea, savoring the authentic flavors while watching the lively street scenes around us.
In the afternoon, we visited the Mount of Olives, just outside the Old City.
The panoramic view from the top was unforgettable, offering a sweeping vista of Jerusalem’s skyline, with the Dome of the Rock shining at the center. The Mount of Olives itself is steeped in history, home to ancient Jewish cemeteries, the Church of All Nations, and the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest. Walking among olive trees believed to be over 2,000 years old was a surreal experience.
Visiting the Israel Museum was an incredible journey through history and culture for us. There are two important exhibits in the museum: the model of the city from the time of the Second Temple and the Dead Sea Scrolls uncovered in Qumran.
The highlight was seeing the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Shrine of the Book.
Standing before these ancient manuscripts, some over 2,000 years old, was awe-inspiring. We also marveled at the model of Second Temple-era Jerusalem, which brought the city’s history vividly to life. Exploring the museum’s extensive archaeological wing, we saw the oldest known human figurine and ancient artifacts like coins and pottery relevant to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam alike. The contemporary art exhibits added a modern touch, making the visit a perfect blend of past and present.
Stepping into the Cenacle on Mount Zion was like walking into a moment frozen in time. The arched stone ceilings and simple yet elegant design of the room exuded a sense of reverence and history. As we stood there, reflecting on the tradition that this was the site of the Last Supper, we felt an overwhelming connection to the stories and events that shaped so much of history. The quiet atmosphere invited us to pause, taking in the sacredness of this space.
Before the day ended, we took a walk along the ramparts of the Old City walls. The views from above gave us a different perspective of the city, from its ancient rooftops to its modern outskirts. It was incredible to see how history and modern life coexist so closely in Jerusalem.
In the evening, we ventured to the newer part of the city to explore Mahane Yehuda Market. By day, it’s a bustling marketplace, but at night, it transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife. We strolled through its narrow lanes, now lit with fairy lights, and found a cozy spot for dinner. The energy of the market, with live music and locals mingling, was infectious and a perfect way to unwind after a long day.
Jerusalem is unlike any place we’ve ever been. It’s a city where every corner holds layers of history, faith, and culture. From its sacred sites to its vibrant streets, our time here was both humbling and exhilarating. It’s a place that stays with you, leaving you with memories and reflections that deepen long after you leave.