Cultural+Events

__ Attractions in Israel __ by Racheli & Gila Israel is an exceptionally beautiful country, due to the variety of people, cultures, historical sites and natural attractions which are found in it's midst. If one is in Israel for a visit, it is much recommended to explore Jerusalem- a very interesting city, which Jews had lived in for thousands of years. It is also the capitol of Israel, and for that reason is full of Jewish and Israeli culture. In the center of Jerusalem stands the Kotel (a.k.a the Western Wall) - the only remnant of the Temple. The Temple was the center of religious worship for the people of Israel for a thousand years, from the 10th century BCE, till the first century CE. The Kotel is a stone wall, and through the whole year is visited by Jews from all over the world, due to the fact that it is considered by many Jews as the holiest site in the world today. Half an hour away from the Western Wall, is the ancient City of David. The story of the City of David began over 3,000 years ago, when King David left the city of Hebron and captured a city (which was later known as Jerusalem), establishing it as the unified capitol of the tribes of Israel. The site is filled with archeological finds from 3,000 years ago, such as a water tunnel one can trek through, and the Gihon Spring, the major water source of Jerusalem for over 1,000 years. There are numerous museums in Jerusalem, such as the Science museum, the Bible Lands Museum and the Israel museum to name a few, which offer exciting and interesting tours. The Shuk (bazaar/ marketplace) in Jerusalem is a colorful and sense awakening place. Hundred of sellers shouting out the names of the wares, the dizzying array of spices and delicious fruits, and the crowds pushing and negotiating on prices are only part of this special experience. The Holocaust is a part of every Jew's history, and "Yad Vashem" (- which means a name and a hand) is an interactive and moving museum which was established by the national Authority for the Remembrance of the Martyrs and Heroes of the [|Holocaust]. It was established to commemorate the six million Jewish men, women and children murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators during the years 1933-1945, and the free tours the site offers are non- forgettable. Considered by many to be a must-see tourist attraction, Mini-Israel is simply good fun for people of all ages and backgrounds. An outing to Mini Israel allows visitors to see the entire country at eye level, via 350 miniature models of some of the most beloved areas and landmarks in the nation. The attractions above are only a small number of the beautiful and magical possibilities Israel has to offer. We hope you will consider visiting this small but incredibly special country soon!