Experience Spirituality and Culture in Jerusalem’s Old City

Impressive 16th century Ottoman walls surround the Old City in Jerusalem, one of the most politically and religiously turbulent, yet beautiful and spiritual landmarks in the world. 

 One cannot help but be overwhelmed with culture and spirituality as one wanders through the winding, narrow twists and turns of the Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Armenian Quarters in this place which is the center of three of the world’s major religions.
What makes the Old City unique, as opposed to other historical landmarks, is that it is still a living, breathing city.  As you wander the streets you get a sense that this is not just another tourist attraction - the Old City is truly special.
When you arrive in Jerusalem, you can enter the Old City through a number of gates, located around the walls in different parts of Jerusalem.  Other gates include the New Gate, the Damascus Gate, Herod’s Gate, St. Stephen’s Gate, the Golden Gate, Dung Gate and Zion Gate.  Different gates lead to different quarters of the city.
The Old City is small and you can get around by foot to see each of the sections or quarters.  The Christian Quarter is home to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Church of St. John the Baptist.  Visitors in the Christian Quarter should also spend time browsing the shops on Christian Quarter Road and sitting in the quiet outdoor cafés at Muristan.
The Muslim Quarter is the largest quarter in the Old City.  This quarter is home to al-Aqsa Mosque as well as to the Dome of the Rock, the spot where Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven.  The Muslim Quarter is also home to several Christian sites including St. Anne’s Church, the Monastery of the Flagellation and the Ecce Homo Arch are also found in this quarter.
The Jewish Quarter is home to the Western Wall, which marks the western edge of the Temple Mount before its destruction.  Visitors are welcome to walk up to the wall to pray, reflect or write a note to stick within the wall’s cracks.  The Jewish Quarter also houses an archeological museum and park.
The Armenian Quarter is the smallest of the four and is home to the Citadel, St. James Cathedral, King David’s Tomb and more.  Each quarter contains its own charm and spirituality.