One of the oldest and holiest cities in the world, Jerusalem holds a special place for Christians, Jews and Muslims. It is here that Jesus was crucified, Mohammed is believed to have ascended from heaven and Jews believe the universe evolved from. Rapt in stories of faith, conquer and the conquest, I tread slowly across this world that, thanks to its legacy, bears a biblical air around it. It hosts around 11 million visitors every year.
The Great Western Wall: One of the most sought-after sites here is the Western Wall tunnel. Words cannot describe the calm that emanates from the silent prayers on its walls — it is a surface that bears prayers from across that world. Walking through the tunnel, I peeked over windows that gave me a glimpse of the streets that existed over 2,000 years ago.
We’re told that the wall was made of rocks as heavy as 570 metric tonnes (imagine 160 Asian elephants) and a workforce of 10,000 people helped build it during the reign of King Herod. What’s very interesting and commendable is that these rocks still stand stable despite not having used any cement or adhesive to bind the rocks. The tunnel also takes us to ancient bathhouses, Roman aque- ducts and the likes that give us insight into the old water management system in those times.
Jerusalem today is clearly divided into two parts — the old city, built on the Temple Mount, and the new city. In order to ensure that the old world charm is not lost, the government has made it mandatory that all the new homes being built in the city be of red limestone so as to add to and retain the character of the city.
To market, to market: As I walked past the old market of Muslim Quarters, Jewish Quarters and Christian Quarters adjacent to the Temple Mount, I felt connected to this world in more ways than one. Local markets of these Quarters sell groceries, falafels and the usual fare. But what’s interesting to notice is that there is a mixed basket of things that go on sale here.
The things that go on sale depict the religious harmony because products are not restricted to a certain faith. One of the specialties of the market is the award-winning halwa made from Ethiopian sesame in 100 variants including chocolate, coffee, wine and pure classic halwa. Another is 1,200 variants of cheese from around the world.
Livestock was sold here in abundance in the early ages for sacrifice in the temples. But what stands here today is a far cry from those times. Today the market hosts a number of cafes and restaurants apart from nightclubs that set the street abuzz at night.
Old meets new: Jerusalem would be incomplete without the miracle every year in the church of the Holy Sepulchre, where the Ceremony of the Holy Fire is conducted. It is when the ray of light is said to descend from heaven and light the candles. Also, don’t miss the vibrant 3D sound and light show at the King David Tower that’ll take you avenues you’d never find in books and movies. Top it up with a Zumba dance session like we did. It doesn’t sound like the kind of experience that a city with strong religious ties would offer, right? But that’s the beauty of Jerusalem — it surprises you with its universal character.
— The writer is a travel blogger constantly seeking new experiences
