Although not as big as the Christian Quarter or the Muslim Quarter, the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem’s old city is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel, and for a good reason. Its network of alleys bears many historical and archaeological sites, interwoven with artisans’ workshops and street food vendors.

History of the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter developed in the Middle Ages on top of neighborhoods from Jerusalem’s First and Second Temple periods. Perhaps the main incentive for the Jews to settle there was its proximity to the Western Wall. In the mid-19th century the Jews established the a new neighborhood outside the city walls, Mishkenot Shananim. Additional Jewish settlments that followed establised the core of today’s Western Jerusalem.

In 1948, during the Israeli-Arab War, the Jordanian army conquered the Jewish Quarter, and deported its Jewish residents. It remained in ruins for 19 years, until 1967. As a result of the Six Days War, among others, the Jews returned to the Jewish quarter, and rebuilt it. Its ruins from 1948 were cleared, and a new design was set, in harmony with its previous style. The development was accompanied by an extensive archaeological project, unveiling many finds from Jerusalem’s past. Today, the Jewish Quarter is inhabited by about 5,000 residents and is a popular tourist destination.

Touring the Jewish Quarter

The combination of the Quarter’s design, religious institutions, archaeological sites, and artisan workshops makes the Jewish Quarter a great and fun place to explore. The best archaeological sites are the Herodian Quarter and the Burnt House. For a unique shopping experience, stroll along the Cardo, where many souvenir shops are lined up. You can also visit synagogues such as Sephardic, Hurva, or Karaite Synagogue of the Jewish Quarter. The Jewish quarter is also a short walk from the Western Wall.

A tour of the Jewish Quarter can be combined with a day tour of Jerusalem.