The Jewish Quarter In Jerusalem
The Jewish quarter in Jerusalem should be the first step of your visit to Israel. Jerusalem is an integral part of Judaism, and it is fun, enriching, and significant to explore this magnificent city. Such a trip becomes one of the most engaging activities in the city. The Jaffa Gate and the Hurva Synagogue are particular historical sites. Indeed, this route has its religious and historical importance.
The Hurva Synagogue In The Jewish Quarter In Jerusalem
This Synagogue also has the name Ruin of Rabbi Yehuda Chassid, and it is in the centre of the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. Until the middle of the British Mandate, it also served as the centre of the Ashkenazi community. Moreover, it was central and vital for the community and not just because of its location. The name Ruin is due to its history. Its construction dates back to the early 18th century by a group of immigrants led by Rabbi Yehuda the Chassid. Later, its destruction and reconstruction retook place in the middle of the 19th century by the Gra’s disciples. Also, the War of Independence damaged it.
For the third time in the early 2000s, archaeological excavations at the site were found dating back to the Second Temple and Byzantine periods. The ruined synagogue has become one of the Old City of Jerusalem. The synagogue is one of the most magnificent in the Jewish Quarter, and inside there is the tallest ark in the world. The temple is active and open to visitors. Ceremonies such as Aliyah to Torah, and Shabbat Chatan, are held in this magnificent synagogue. From the balcony of the temple, there is an impressive panorama of the old Jerusalem city. Of course, the sanctity of the place and its religious meaning make every visit to this place a unique and exciting experience.
Reaching The Jewish Quarter In Jerusalem
The Hurva Synagogue can be reached from the Jerusalem-Yitzhak Navon station with line 1, the red line of the light rail to the Jaffa Municipality station (Hairiya-Jaffa), and from there, a short walk to the Jaffa Gate, an essential part of the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. From the Jaffa Gate, you have to proceed to Omar al-Khattab Street and David Street. You can turn right on the historic Cardo Street, walk through it, turn right at the next turn, and reach the Synagogue directly. By bus, you can get from Jerusalem Central Station to Keren Hayesod / Shalom Aleichem station with lines 74, 75, and 18 of Egged; from there, change buses and continue with a short ride on line 38 coming to the Jewish Quarter, to the Kishla / Armenian Patriarchate station ‘Near David Street.
A Tour In The History Of Judaism In Jerusalem
- The Cardo street is reachable in a few minutes’ walk from the Hurva Synagogue. Proceeding towards the north, between Chabad Street and HaYehudim Street, you are in your way to the Synagogue walking along the Jaffa Gate. Cardo comes from Latin, being the cross-city street from north to south. The earliest construction of the road dates back to the Roman period. The Cardo is a unique street, 22.5 meters wide, with stone pillars and paved stone slabs, preserved and renovated. In a fascinating project of the “Society for the Restoration and Development of the Jewish Quarter,” the Cardo is decorated with mosaics by the best artists, to tell the city’s story of old Jerusalem.
- The Old Town Yard Museum(Hazer Hayishuv) is about a 3-minute walk from the Hurva Synagogue to the west. The museum building is an ancient house, which is 500 years old. The people of the old settlement had a fascinating and unique lifestyle. The archaeological remains are on display in the permanent exhibitions. The museum holds many exhibits related to the ancient settlements and their inhabitants, their belief in the Creator, little and great joys, challenging moments, along with small moments in their Jerusalem’s daily routine. Additionally, the museum organises activities for children and families. You can continue your walk from the Hurva Synagogue to the Western Wall through the Jewish Quarter’s picturesque alleys.