#3 Jerusalem

Welcome to “Introducing Israel”, In this series, we will explore Israel and discover some hidden gems. 
I’m Arielle and I invite you to come with me on this intimate journey and transport yourself for a few minutes to this magical place.
Today we’re going to talk about the history hidden within the walls of Jerusalem. 
Make sure you listen all the way through, so you don’t miss any of my tips. 
Yerushalayim!

Wow! Brace yourself for a city of extremes, for a fascinating city rich in culture and history. Tel Aviv represents new-world culture, and Jerusalem is a time capsule. It is an experience of centuries-old architecture and fascinating history. No matter what your beliefs are, you can appreciate this city's 5000-year history. In this city, you'll find Jews, Muslims, and Christians living together.

Get lost in the streets of Jerusalem. Take your time and discover hidden treasures of the city away from the crowds. 
Jerusalem is a religious city. Each week, starting on Friday evening, this city observes a day of rest. Shabbat. For me, Shabbat is a time to visit Jerusalem, when the city is holding its breath for 24h hours.Shops, restaurants, and other businesses begin to close, public transportation stops and more and more people gather in their homes, the city has a moment of rest. 

A moment we often do not get to experience, coming from a much busier Western civilization. To see the busy buzzing city full of life to feel almost like it got deserted overnight, like it fell asleep, is a feeling that’s hard to grasp. Let’s head into the city and its rich history.The Old City is worth spending most of your time in. It is breathtaking to walk along the cobblestone streets, filled with the aroma of fresh fruit and herbs. You will discover new surprises around every corner. With such a vivid atmosphere it's impossible to ever get bored of this city. In the morning enter The Old City through the Jaffa Gate. From here you get an incredible view of the Old City. We will first go north from here, explore the Christian and Muslim Quarter, and then make our way south to visit the Armenian and Jewish Quarter. We will walk further along to the Dung Gate all the way up to the Western Wall. As you walk from Jaffa Gate through the Christian and Muslim Quarters, you reach the Lion Gate. You’re sure to be enchanted as you wander through the colorful markets and see the myrrh-scented churches. One of them is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is the place where Jesus was crucified. Follow the Via Dolorosa which leads to this church, Walking the same path he did.The Muslim and Christian Quarters are both filled with magic. There are moments when it feels as if I am walking through Aladdin's dream. Exiting the Old City walls at the Damascus Gate, you can get lost in the many alleyways of the Muslim Quarter and find some tucked-away shops. Religious items, textiles, clothing, food, and endless souvenirs fill the shops.
If you feel like a little snack: Visit Jaffar Sweets in Jerusalem for the best Knafeh. For me, it goes well with a cup of fresh mint tea. 
Head back into the Old City and make your way towards Lion’s Gate and Temple Mount. Jews hold this place the holiest place in the world since Abraham sacrificed his son Isaac here. Muhammad ascended to heaven from this place, which is the third holiest place for Muslims after Mecca and Medina. The famous Al Aqsa Mosque can also be found here. Visitors and non-Muslims may only enter through the Mugrabi Gate, which is one of 11 gates in the Old City. A