The first settlements on the territory of modern Jerusalem appeared approximately 5-4 millennia BC. In the Bronze Age, there was a city of one Canaanite people here. By 2300 BC there is a mention of the city of Shalem (as Jerusalem was called in ancient times) in one of the ancient sources. Thus, the Israeli capital is already more than four thousand years old.

The history of Jerusalem is very complex and confusing, it was owned by many states: the Kingdom of Judah, Macedon, Syria, Ptolemaic Egypt, Rome, Byzantium. Later it was conquered by the Crusaders, and after them Jerusalem was ruled by the Mongol-Tatars, Mamluks, and rulers of the Ottoman Empire. For some time it was under the rule of the British Empire. In 1949, the city (or rather, part of it) became the Israeli capital, and by 1967, Israel annexed the remaining territory of Jerusalem.

Jerusalem in religion

There are three Abrahamic religions: Christianity, Islam and Judaism. In all of them, Jerusalem has a sacred status. In this place, the presence of God is felt throughout. This city is mentioned more than six hundred times in their holy scripture. During prayer, all Jews face Jerusalem, wherever they are.

In Islam, the Temple Mount on the territory of the city is associated with the legend of the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad. Today it houses the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which is a sacred site for Muslims.

The Christian Bible describes many scenes taking place in Jerusalem. Thus, the crucifixion of Christ was carried out on Golgotha ​​in the vicinity of the city. His Resurrection also took place in this place, which is why Christians consider Jerusalem sacred.

Modern Jerusalem

Today, just over 800 thousand residents live in Jerusalem, of which 65% are Jews, the rest are Muslims, Christians, representatives of many nationalities and religions. Including many Russians living in the Israeli capital.

The historical part of the city is surrounded by an ancient fortress wall and is one of the main attractions. It is divided into four parts: Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Armenian. There are several sacred places on the territory of Jerusalem: the Temple Mount, the famous Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

Even though Israel controls the entire city, the international community does not recognize all of Jerusalem as the capital of the state.

Video on the topic

Israel became an independent state not so long ago - in 1948, but this country has a centuries-old history of development and formation. Today, more and more people are immigrating there, and the number of tourists there is increasing every year. It is not surprising, because this state has many historical attractions, and some industries are at a fairly high level.

Medicine

For decades now, Israel has been a leader in the world in terms of healthcare. Residents of this state are guaranteed qualified medical care in accordance with compulsory health insurance. Existing private cash desks are under strict control of the state, which monitors not only the cost charged, but also the quality of the services provided.

Israel ranks fourth in the world in terms of life expectancy. And child mortality in this country is one of the lowest in the world.

It is worth noting that medicine in Israel is now one of the most developed areas. The hospitals use the latest equipment, and most doctors are true professionals in their field. Great importance is also paid to research that results in the development of new methods for diagnosing and treating various diseases. It is not surprising that many people from different countries turn to Israeli hospitals for qualified medical care. True, it is not cheap for residents of other countries.

Tourism

Another developed area in Israel is tourism. Millions of pilgrims, including both Jews and Christians, come to this country every year. The capital of the state, Jerusalem, is famous for its rich history and ancient sacred places: the Western Wall, the Temple Mount, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

In addition to pilgrims, many ordinary tourists come to the country who want to enjoy a holiday on the clear sea and walks through the most beautiful places in the country. Tel Aviv alone has many amazing places: the city's promenade along the Mediterranean Sea, the famous Jaffa district, the ancient port, or the local flea markets. In this colorful city, it’s pleasant to even just stroll along the streets, looking into cozy cafes or private shops selling local goods.

The income from tourism in Israel is huge. Moreover, the majority of tourists are citizens of the USA and Russia.

You can relax at sea there both in luxury hotels and in small apartments that are rented out for a variety of periods. In the north of the country there is a large Lake Kinneret, in the western part you can swim in the Mediterranean Sea, and in the southeast of Israel - in the salty Dead Sea. And from the south the country

Israel was founded relatively recently - in 1948. During this time, Israel has become one of the most influential states in the world. Millions of tourists visit this country every year. They are attracted to Israel by holy sites associated with Jesus Christ and the biblical patriarchs, thousands of unique attractions, beach resorts of the Mediterranean and Red Seas, and spa resorts of the Dead Sea. Will you be going to Israel? Don't forget to take your video camera with you!

Geography of Israel

Israel is located in the Middle East. Israel borders Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, and Jordan to the east. In the southwest is the Gaza Strip, the so-called. "unrecognized territory". In the west, Israel is washed by the Mediterranean and Red Seas, and in the southeast is the Dead Sea. The total area of ​​this country is 22,072 square meters. km, and the total length of the state border is 1,017 km.

In the south of Israel there is the Negev Desert, whose area is about 12 thousand square meters. km., and in the north – the Golan Heights, as well as mountain ranges. Another large desert in Israel is the Judean desert. The highest peak in Israel is Mount Hermon, whose height reaches 2,200 m.

In the east of Israel flows the Jordan River, which separates this country from Jordan.

Capital

The capital of Israel is Jerusalem, which is now home to more than 820 thousand people. The first human settlement on the territory of modern Jerusalem, as archaeologists believe, appeared in the late Bronze Age.

Official language

Israel has two official languages ​​– Hebrew and Arabic.

Religion

More than 75% of Israel's population is Jewish. Another 17% of Israelis consider themselves Muslim.

State structure

Israel is a parliamentary republic. Its head is the President, elected by the Knesset (Parliament) for a 7-year term.

Legislative power belongs to a unicameral parliament, the Knesset, consisting of 120 deputies.

Executive power belongs to the President, Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers.

The main political parties in Israel are Likud, Our Home is Israel, Jewish Home, etc.

Climate and weather

The climate in Israel is subtropical Mediterranean. The average air temperature is +17.4%. The warmest average air temperature in Israel is observed in July and August - +30C, and the lowest - in January and February (+6C). Average precipitation is 493 mm per year.

Average air temperature in Jerusalem:

January - +9C
- February - +9C
- March - +12C
- April - +16C
- May - +21C
- June - +23C
- July - +24C
- August - +24C
- September - +23C
- October - +21C
- November - +16C
- December - +11.5C

Sea in Israel

In the west, Israel is washed by the Mediterranean and Red Seas. Israel's total coastline is 273 km. In the east of the country is the Dead Sea. The average annual temperature of the Mediterranean Sea near Haifa is +22.4C.

Average temperature of the Mediterranean Sea near Haifa:

January - +17C
- February - +16.2C
- March - +17.1C
- April - +19.2C
- May - +22.2C
- June - +25.5C
- July - +28.3C
- August - +28.8C
- September - +28.5C
- October - +26C
- November - +22C
- December - +18.4C

Rivers and lakes

Despite the fact that Israel has several deserts, quite a lot of rivers flow through the territory of this country. Among them are Kishon, Lachish, Besor, Naaman, Sorek, Harod. In the east of Israel flows the Jordan River, which separates this country from Jordan.

History of Israel

The first human settlements on the territory of modern Israel appeared 9 thousand years ago. Semitic tribes settled in Israel approximately 5 thousand years ago. About 2,400 years ago, ancient Jewish tribes already lived in the territory of modern Israel.

In ancient times, Israel was part of Ancient Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, the Persian Achaemenid Empire, Macedonia, the Ptolemaic and Seleucid states. In the middle of the 1st century BC. Judea fell into vassalage from Ancient Rome, and in 70 AD. it became a Roman province.

The Romans divided Judea into several regions - Samaria, Galilee, Perea, and Judea proper. After some time, the Romans renamed Judea Palestine.

In the Middle Ages, Israel was part of the Byzantine Empire, as well as the Sassanid Empire. For some time, Israel was captured by Arabs and Crusaders. By the way, the longest-lasting crusader fortress in Israel was Acre, which the Egyptian Mamluks conquered only in 1291. From this time until 1517, Israel was ruled by the Egyptian Mamluks.

In 1517, the Turkish Sultan Selim I managed to conquer Israel (Palestine), which became part of the Ottoman Empire.

Only in 1918 did Israel (Palestine) gain actual independence, although it was under British protectorate. Israeli independence was declared in May 1948.

In 1949, Israel became a member of the UN.

Culture

Despite the fact that the Israelis did not have their own homeland for a long time, they still preserved their culture and traditions. “Shabbat” in Israel falls on Saturday, but practically begins on Friday evening. Therefore, in Israel the day off is not only Saturday, but also half of Friday.

Israelis celebrate a huge number of holidays, most of which, of course, are religious. Among these holidays, the following must be mentioned: Jewish New Year, Day of Judgment, Feast of Tabernacles, Feast of the Joy of the Torah, Passover, Seventh Day of Passover, Independence Day, Pentecost.

Kitchen

Most Israelis were born in a variety of countries. They brought the culinary traditions of these countries to Israel. Therefore, in Israel you can find a very wide range of dishes that owe their origin to, for example, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Ukraine and Russia. In addition, Arab culinary traditions are noticeable in Israeli cuisine.

- “Gefilte” - fish balls (most often they are made from carp);
- Kneidlach – dumplings made from matzo, which are added to soup;
- Fazuelos – traditional Israeli pastries;
- “Homentashen” - small pies with different fillings (apricots, nuts, apples, cherries);
- “Latkes” - fried pancakes made from flour, eggs and potatoes (very often served with garlic and onions);
- “Kreplach” - small dumplings stuffed with mashed potatoes and minced meat;
- “Tzimus” is a traditional Jewish dish that consists of carrots, beans and chickpeas (prunes and raisins are often added);
- “Ptitim” - products made from wheat flour. Ptitim is either eaten as a side dish or added to soup.

The traditional alcoholic drink in Israel is arak, which is flavored with anise (the strength of this drink can exceed 40 degrees).

Sights of Israel

Israel has a lot of different attractions. Many of them are holy places for Jews, Christians and Muslims. What are the best attractions in Israel? There is no short answer to this question. In our opinion, the top ten best attractions in Israel may include the following:

This fortress was built by the Jewish king Herod the Great. Previously, David's Fortress had three towers. However, only the lower part of one of the towers has survived to this day. Now the Fortress of David houses the Museum of the History of Jerusalem.

Church of John the Baptist in Jerusalem

The Church of John the Baptist was built in the 8th century. Thus, it is one of the oldest churches in Jerusalem. In the early Middle Ages, the Church of John the Baptist was destroyed, but in the 11th century it was restored.

It is believed that this temple was built on the spot where Jesus Christ was crucified. The initiator of the construction of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem was Julia Helena Augusta, the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine. The construction of the temple was completed in 335.

Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem

This temple was built on the site where Jesus Christ is believed to have been born. Over time, several monasteries were built around the Church of the Nativity.

Montfort Castle

The construction of Montfort Castle was carried out by the Teutonic Knights in the first half of the 13th century. In 1271, Sultan Baybars of Egypt captured this castle, and since then no one has restored it.

It is believed that Jesus Christ talked with his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. There he was arrested.

Belvoir Fortress

This fortress was built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 12th century. True, there were already Crusader fortifications in its place before. In the mid-1960s, archaeological excavations began at the Belvoir fortress.

Mosque of Omar

This building is also sometimes called the al-Aqsa Mosque. It was built at the end of the 12th century on the site of Solomon's Temple, where, according to legend, the Ark was once kept.

Tomb of Machpelah in Hebron

The biblical patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are buried in this tomb. The Tomb of Machpelah is a holy place for Jews, Christians and Muslims.

Monastery of the Carmelite Order in Haifa

The Carmelite monastery in Haifa was built in the 12th century on the biblical Mount Carmel. It is on this mountain that Elijah the prophet is believed to have once lived.

Cities and resorts

The largest Israeli cities are Tel Aviv, Haifa, Jaffa, and, of course, Jerusalem.

Even though Israel is a small country with several deserts, it has excellent beach, spa (and even one ski) resorts.

The most popular Israeli beach resorts are Eilat, Netanya, Herzliya, Haifa, and Caesar. The spa resorts of Ein Gedi and Ein Bokek are located on the Dead Sea coast.

A ski resort was built on Mount Hermon, the total length of the slopes is 8 kilometers

Souvenirs/shopping

Today we will try to figure out which capital of Israel is: Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. It turns out that those who claim that this is a modern city with the romantic name Hill of Spring, and others who give primacy to the ancient settlement in the Promised Land, are also right.

A little about the country

Before resolving the eternal debate about which city is the capital of Israel: Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, we will tell you a little about the country itself. The state is located in the Middle East, in the lands mentioned in the Bible. Just over eight million people live here. Having gone through centuries of misfortunes and wanderings, people managed to return to their homeland and revive it. Today this country is considered one of the most highly developed in the world in terms of economy, army, level of medicine, and attractiveness for tourists. And although conflicts with neighbors arise quite often in Israel, hundreds of thousands of immigrants choose to live there. And pilgrims who want to visit the holy places of three world religions at once are not afraid of anything at all.

Two capitals of one state

So which is it, the capital of Israel - Tel Aviv or Jerusalem? Let's figure it out. According to official data, the main political center of the country is ancient Jerusalem. But it is worth noting that only the government and religious centers are located in it. The remaining sectors of human activity (culture, education, business, entertainment, trade) are concentrated in Tel Aviv. This is a young city with a special flavor and unsurpassed charm. Next, we will dwell in more detail on each of these capitals, since they are in no way inferior to each other.

Ancient Jerusalem

So, the reader already knows which capital of Israel is Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. The city, which is thousands of years old, today attracts people from all over the globe. Interestingly, there are no mineral resources here; it is quite difficult to grow crops here. So why does humanity strive here, to the land promised by God to all Jews? Hard to say.

The city of Jerusalem was mentioned already in the 18th and 19th centuries BC. Over the years of its existence, it has changed hands more than once: Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Turks, Egyptians, and the British have left their traces in these lands. In May 1948, Israel became an independent state and began the countdown to its new life.

Sights of Jerusalem

The debate about which capital of Israel is Tel Aviv or Jerusalem continues even now. But the reader already knows the truth, so we invite him on a virtual journey through the sights of the ancient holy city. And there are a dime a dozen of them here, and, as the locals say, every pebble here is sacred. Therefore, we stop talking about which capital is in Israel - Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, and go to the city of God.

  • The Dome of the Rock Mosque has a golden dome, 20 meters in diameter, which is visible from every corner of the Old City. This is a functioning shrine, erected on the site of the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad to heaven.
  • The Western Wall is the only surviving wall of the Second Temple of Jerusalem, destroyed by order of Titus. True, this is not part of the temple itself, but the remains of supporting structures around the mountain. But still, every resident or guest of the city considers it his duty to come here and pray to the Almighty.
  • The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is the greatest Christian shrine, erected on the site of the crucifixion and burial, as well as the resurrection of Jesus. The first temple was built here by Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine. According to legend, she found a cave in the dungeon where the body of Christ once rested, as well as the cross on which he was crucified.
  • Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third most important shrine in Islam. It was in her direction that Muslims turned until the prophet moved the qibla to Mecca.
  • Via Dolorosa is the path that Jesus took while carrying his cross to Calvary. This is the road of sorrow, which has 14 stops, where chapels have now been erected.
  • Cathedral of St. James in the Armenian Quarter (12th century).
  • Tsidkiyahu Cave, or King Solomon's Quarries.
  • Church and monastery of St. Mary Magdalene (18th century), erected by order of the Russian Emperor Alexander III.
  • Citadel of David. This is not a sacred building, but it has served the people as protection and fortress many times.

Now the reader will forever remember which capital of the state of Israel is Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. And we continue our journey and go to another main city of this wonderful country.

Second capital

We continue our discussion about whether the capital of the country of Israel is Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. More than a million people live in the city, which is rightly called the second capital of the state. Its founding date is considered to be 1909, and forty years later it became the capital of Israel. The Hill of Spring, which is how the name of the settlement is translated, unites several cities: Jaffa, Holon, Petach-Tiqva, Ramat Gan, Bat Yam, Bene Baraq. It is in Tel Aviv, and not in Jerusalem, that the Ministry of Defense and many foreign embassies are located. This city is the center of commercial, financial, industrial and cultural life of the country.

Sights of Tel Aviv

Is the capital of Israel Tel Aviv or Jerusalem? The discussion continues, so we take a tour of the modern and vibrant metropolis called Spring Hill. What interesting things await a traveler who decides to stay here?

  • Beaches on the Mediterranean Sea. In fact, this is the entire western part of Tel Aviv, divided into sections. Each beach has not only its own name, but also a rescue service. They are equipped with bike paths and sports grounds, and offer peace and quiet.
  • Old Jaffa is a port that has well preserved its former appearance. Here, pay attention to the Clock Square with a tower, the History Museum, the Square of Antiquities, the Old Port and the Flea Market.
  • The Carmel Market is the heart of local trade, a noisy bazaar with a unique oriental flavor, where you can hear all the languages ​​of the world.
  • The Neve Tzedek neighborhood was once a prestigious neighborhood for the city's wealthiest. Today there are museums, galleries, and boutiques here.
  • Museum of Art, located on an area of ​​18 thousand square meters.
  • Rabin Square. This is the place where Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated. Today a memorial is opened there, and rallies are held every year.
  • Crafts market.
  • Rothschild Boulevard is the first in the city.
  • Yarkon Park is the largest park in the country, located on the river of the same name.

There is a lot to be said about whether the capital of Israel is Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Each city is important and special in its own way. Don't believe me? See for yourself by visiting them and strolling through their streets!

The country's third largest city and Israel's largest seaport lies on the slopes of Mount Carmel. For a long time, the city developed as a port appendage of Acre and gradually turned into the country's central sea gate and a major railway junction. Haifa differs sharply from other cities in Israel - business life is constantly in full swing here, there is a strong influence of European traditions and a softer embodiment of the norms of Judaism - it is the only city in the country where public transport and most entertainment venues operate on Saturdays.

The main attraction of the city is the biblical Mount Carmel (“God’s Vineyard”, 546 m), on which Elijah the Prophet lived and which is considered the “homeland” of the Carmelite order. Nowadays, the mountain is occupied by city blocks and covered with numerous gardens and parks, among which observation decks and famous monasteries are picturesquely scattered - the Catholic monastery of the Carmelite Order (XIII century), the Great Synagogue of Haifa on Herzl Street, the cave of Elijah the Prophet and the temple crowned with a golden dome. Bahais with its famous Persian Gardens and the tomb of the founder of this religious movement - El-Baha (Baba or Bar-Mirza-Ali-Muhammad).

At Cape Carmel lies the extensive archaeological site of Tel Shikmona ("Sycamore Hill"). Also interesting are the Stella Maris building ("Starfish"), the old Technion (Israel Institute of Technology, 1912), the colorful Moshava-Germanite district ("German colony"), the Druze villages of Isfiya and Daliyat el-Karmel, Gan-a -Em ("Mother's Garden") with the Museum of Ancient History and a zoo located on its territory, the Haifa City Museum complex, the Museum of the artist Meni Katz, the Museum of Illegal Immigration, the National Maritime Museum, the Music Museum, the Museum of Japanese Folk Art with a real rock garden in Japanese style, the Sculpture Garden on Zionism Boulevard and the Kababir quarter, where followers of the Muslim sect of Ahmed live. One of the largest and most beautiful parks in Israel is the vast HaCarmel Nature Reserve, adjacent to the campus of the University of Haifa. In the northern spurs of the Carmel Ridge lies a magnificent memorial park surrounding the tomb of Baron Rothschild and his wife.

Akko

Ancient Acre, located 13 km south of Haifa, is another tourist pearl of the country. The first mention of the city dates back to 1800 BC. e., but the era of the Crusades brought it real fame, when the city became the capital of the Crusaders in Palestine and was surrounded by powerful defensive structures. Therefore, not a single city of the Crusaders has survived to this day in such a preserved condition as Acre.

The main attractions are concentrated in the Old Town, surrounded by massive walls. The main ones are the Citadel (1785) with the Museum of Heroism, old fortress walls, huge medieval city gates, Burj el-Sultan watchtower, Al-Jazar Mosque (1781), St. Francis Monastery (XVII century), recently discovered by archaeologists “City of the Crusaders” (citadel of the Order of St. John), the building of the Turkish baths (18th century) with an exhibition of the city museum, the caravanserai Khan el-Umdan (1785), the Clock Tower (1906), etc. .

Nazareth

The holy city of the Christian world, the place where Christ spent his childhood. Here are the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation (1969) - the largest cathedral in the Middle East, the picturesque Orthodox Church of the Archangel Gabriel on the site of the fountain of the Virgin Mary, Sepphoris National Park (Zippori, the parental home of the Virgin Mary) to the west of the city, Mount Tabor (site of the Transfiguration of the Lord) ), the village of Nain, Kfar Kana east of Nazareth, where Jesus performed his first miracle at a wedding ceremony, the remains of Roman water tanks in which Jesus turned water into wine, as well as the ancient Jewish city of Zippori with a crusader fortress and numerous archaeological sites.

Tiberias

The main spiritual center of the country after the expulsion of the Jews from Jerusalem and the birthplace of Israel's writing, Tiberias (Tiberias) is located in the northeast of the country, on the shores of the Yam Kinneret (Lake of Galilee). Tiberias is one of the four holy cities for Jews (Jerusalem, Hebron, Tiberias and Safed). The streets and alleys of the Old Town are narrow and winding, and the ancient houses made of black basalt give the panorama a special charm. Every year tens of thousands of people flock to Tiberias to venerate national shrines - the tombs of Maimonides or the Rambam (author of one of the first codes of Judaism), Johanaan ben Zakai and Rabbi Akiva. No less attractive are the Greek Orthodox Temple of the Twelve Apostles, the ruins of a synagogue (6th century) in the hot springs area, as well as the remains of the ancient Jewish city of Hamat-Tiberias (1st-4th centuries AD). Since 1955, the Hamei-Tiberias balneological resort complex has been operating on the basis of 17 local springs with temperatures up to +63C and healing mud “piloma”. In the vicinity of the lake there are beautiful holiday homes. At the point where the Jordan River exits Yam Kinneret there is Jordanit, a traditional place of baptism in the waters of the sacred river. On the northern shore of the lake lies Capernaum (Kfar Nahum), where Jesus lived and preached, and is now being excavated to reveal a Franciscan church and monastery on the Mount of the Sermon on the Mount (Beats).

Safed

Lying on the top of a mountain at an altitude of 800 m, Safed is one of the oldest and most mysterious places in Israel. The spiritual center of Kabbalah, one of the impregnable fortified cities of the Zealots, one of the largest holy cities of Judaism today, is famous for its artist communities, art galleries and workshops in the charming Artists' Quarter, as well as for its ancient synagogues Abohav, Banai, Karo, Ashkenazi and Sephardi Synagogue Ha -Ari.

Israel Center

Tel Aviv ("Hill of Spring")

The first Jewish city of the modern state of Israel, founded in 1909 as a suburban area of ​​Jaffa. After 5 years, 2 thousand people already lived here, in the 30s it turned into the capital of the Jewish Yishuv of Eretz Israel, and today more than 1 million people live in this metropolis. The central offices of the country's largest banks and companies, as well as representative offices of foreign states and firms, are located here. Due to its relative youth, the city is not rich in historical attractions.

Noteworthy are the Independence Palace, where the State of Israel was proclaimed in 1948, the shopping, entertainment and cultural complex "Migdal Opera" ("Opera Tower") on the embankment, the Azrieli Center skyscraper, the "Cinematheque", the national theater Israel's "Habima" (1957), famous for its original architecture, the Tel Aviv Center (Museum) for the Performing Arts (1971) on Shaul HaMelech Boulevard, the picturesque neighborhoods of Neve Tzedek and Dizengoff, the Tel Aviv Art Museum and Library "Shaar Zion". Of interest are the Beit HaTfutsot Museum (Diaspora, 1978) on the territory of Tel Aviv University, the Eretz Israel Museum (Land of Israel, 1953) with an extensive collection of objects from the history of various cultures and a library, the Bruno Gallery art gallery, and also the house-museums of the poet Chaim Nachman Bialik and David Ben-Gurion.

But still, this is not a historical city - you should go to Jaffa for history. But Tel Aviv is the center of intense business activity and vibrant nightlife, Israeli industry, trade, finance, culture, sports and entertainment. Both on modern avenues, and in the old southern quarters, and along the picturesque Tel Aviv embankment, thousands of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops, markets and supermarkets are concentrated. Life here never stops for a minute. Interesting are the youth bar "Buzz Stop", night clubs "Doxo" and "Stephan Brown", the Russian club "Blin", the oriental restaurant "Abulafia", the restaurant "Caucasus", the sports complex "Sportek" and many other establishments.

The market ("shuk") of Carmel in the Yemeni quarter is one of the largest open-air bazaars in the Middle East. Yarkon Park is famous for its green lawns, a botanical garden and a Japanese-style rock garden, the Tsapari bird park and the real “Seven Mills” that operated here until 1936. The local zoo is considered one of the best in Asia. Tel Aviv's yacht clubs ("marinas") are some of the most convenient in the Mediterranean, the Meimadyon water park has every conceivable type of water attractions and a children's playground, and the city's long beaches are equipped with the most modern recreation and entertainment facilities. At the Tel Aviv Yacht Club you can rent equipment for windsurfing, diving or any other outdoor activity. Many sports facilities are concentrated along Rokah Boulevard.

Jaffa

Jaffa (Jaffa) is one of the main ports of ancient Israel and one of the oldest cities in the world, it is believed that it was here that Noah built his ark, somewhere here Perseus freed Andromeda and from here the prophet Jonah set off, here a vision appeared to the Apostle Peter and was The righteous Tabitha was resurrected. It was from here that the return of Jews to Israel began.

Old Jaffa has long merged with Tel Aviv into one metropolis and has become a large tourist and artistic center with numerous restaurants, galleries, workshops, flea markets, salons, museums and archaeological excavations. The main population here is also unique - artists, musicians, sculptors and other people in creative professions. You can wander endlessly through the old streets of Jaffa, discovering something new at every turn and at every house. Interesting are the Jaffa theater "Ha-Simta" ("Lane"), the Museum of Antiquities of Tel Aviv and Jaffa and the Museum of History of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, the Gesher Theater in the Noga Hall (here they play in Russian), the Frank Sculpture Salon Meisler, the underground archaeological museum on Kdumim Square or the Russian-language disco "Megapolis". Old Jaffa has many art galleries and shops, among which the most interesting is the Gabrieli Knitwear Gallery.

South of Jaffa lies the seaside town of Bat Yam ("Mermaid") - one of the favorite seaside resorts of Israelis. There are more than 3 km of sandy beaches, a large city park, a modern recreation center, and there is even a large artificial skating rink! You can visit the Ben-Ari cultural center and the Fisherman's House art museum. In Ramla, located 20 km from Tel Aviv, the 30-meter minaret of the White Tower Mosque (13th century) and the Church of Nicodemus and Joseph (1902) are interesting. 20 km from Tel Aviv lies, first mentioned in the chronicles of the 15th century BC. e. the city of Lod (Lud), in which, according to legend, St. George is buried. Above the supposed tomb of the saint in the 6th century. a basilica was erected, on the ruins of which the crusaders built a church, restored after numerous destructions only in 1870. Two ancient mosques, baths and a caravanserai have also been preserved. In the Modiin area, a huge number of mounds (“tels”) have been preserved, hiding the ruins of ancient settlements, as well as numerous graves carved into the slopes of the surrounding hills.

Jerusalem

The holy city of Jerusalem, which is more than 3 thousand years old, is the main attraction of the area, one of the oldest cities in the world, “the capital of three religions.” The ancient capital of Israel, the city called Jebus under King David, is a fantastic mixture of history, cultures and peoples. The number of attractions here is simply huge, so it’s worth spending more time on this unique place.

The city is surrounded by mountains, so it’s better to start getting acquainted with its history from the observation deck on Maslenichnaya Mountain (793 m). Beyond the Kidron River one can see the old fortress walls, and behind them are numerous domes of temples, “candles” of minarets and the roofs of the Old City. In the northwestern part of the Old Town lies the Christian Quarter, where the shrine of the Christian world is located - the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (1149 AD, repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt) with a small chapel "Edicule" (Holy Sepulcher, 1810), a majestic the Temple of the Resurrection, which houses part of the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ, and the remains of a quarry from the times of the First Temple. Adjacent to the temple are the Church of the Savior (Redimer), the Alexandria Compound, the ruins of the Gate of Judgment, above the threshold of which is the Church of Alexander Nevsky, the sad Golgotha, the Greek Church of St. Helena, the Stone of Anointing and the chapel of the forefather Adam. Behind one of the markets of the Old City, on Muristan Street, is located one of the most remarkable churches in the city, the Church of the Atonement (1898), and one of the oldest churches in Jerusalem - John the Baptist (8th century AD). Opposite the Greek Patriarchate lies the Church of Constantine and Helena (6th century AD), several churches and chapels that make up the majestic Greek monastery. Not far from the monastery, between the New and Jaffa Gates, there is the building of the Roman Catholic Patriarchate and the Theological Seminary, as well as the Monastery of the Savior (St. Savior).

Beyond the Lion Gate within the Old City lies the Via Delarosa (Dolorosa or Sorrowful Way), along which, according to biblical legends, Christ made his way to Calvary. Throughout the Path of Sorrows, churches and monuments mark all stages of the Messiah's journey. Within the Via Delarosa, you should definitely see the Garden of Gethsemane behind the Lion Gate, where Christ was arrested, the monastery of St. Anne (mother of the Virgin Mary), the underground font of Bethesda (Sheep Font), the El Omaria (Omrim) school on the site of the Antonia fortress, the Chapel of the Flagellation and Condemnations, the monastery of the Sisters of Zion, the building of the Armenian Patriarchate, the chapel of St. Veronica and the Church of Our Lady of the Great Martyr. The tomb of Herod's family, Terra Santa, lies somewhat to the north.

North of Via Delarosa lies the Muslim quarter of the old city, which is adjacent to the Temple Mount (Haar HaMoria) with the sacred courtyard of the Haram el-Sherif. Here rises the golden dome of the Mosque of the Rock, or Dome of the Rock (Kipat-a "Sela, Mosque of Omar, 688-692), erected above the sanctuary of Solomon's Temple, in which, according to legend, the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This is the most important sanctuary of Islam - hence the prophet ascended to heaven, where the covenants of Islam were revealed to him, and the oldest surviving Muslim building in the world. Here you can see the footprint of the prophet on the rock and three hairs from his beard. South of Kipat-a" Village lies the no less revered Al-Aqsa Mosque (El -Aktsa, 693), as well as the mosque of the Dome of the Chain, the Prophet and Prophet Elias.

South-west of Haar HaMoria there is a Jewish quarter with unique historical monuments, such as the remains of the watchtower of ancient Jerusalem - the Tower of Israel, a model of the First Temple, the remains of the Citadel of David with the Museum of the History of Jerusalem, the Southern Wall, the Hasmonean tunnels, Robinson's Arch, Warren's Well , Wilson and Berkeley arches, as well as the wide staircase of Maalot Rabi Yehuda, leading to a place sacred to every Jew - the Western Wall (Western Wall), made of huge stone monoliths. According to religious tradition, Jews must come to the Jerusalem Temple three times a year, so the only building that has survived from it has long been an object of pilgrimage - near it you can always find praying Jews, putting notes with appeals to God into the cracks between the stones.

The Valley of the Kings is located southwest of the Temple Mount, between the Church of Gethsemane and the Gehenome Valley to the south. Its main attraction is the City of David, where the construction of Jerusalem began in the era of King David. These places are home to many archaeological sites - the Pillar of Absalom, the Tomb of Bnei Hezir, the ancient area of ​​Ophel and the Tanners' Arch. No less interesting are the areas of Jerusalem that lie outside the Old City. The beautiful Jerusalem Municipality building stands in Safra Square. Somewhat further west is Migrash-a-Rusim (Russian Compound) with the Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (1863), the Court of First Instance and the Museum of Underground Prisoners in the building of a former British prison. In the same area are the Abyssinian (Ethiopian) Church and the Monastery of St. Joseph. Along the central street of the city, Jaffa, stretches a whole series of attractions - Davidki Square (Kikar-a-Herut, named after the homemade Davidka mortar, actively used by the Israelis during the War of Independence), the main market of the city - Mahane Yehuda, the largest concert Jerusalem Hall - Binyanei-a'Uma (Palace of the Nation), Allenby Memorial, Clock Tower Synagogue (1906) and the picturesque Orthodox Jewish quarter of Mea Shearim ("one hundred gates").

On the slope of the Givat Ram hill there is the Knesset building (1966) - the seat of the Israeli parliament, as well as the old Kiriya parliament building, the Supreme Court (1992), the huge Givat Ram university campus, the Hebrew Academy, Orth College, the amphitheater, the National the Israel Museum (1965) with a sculptural art garden named after Billy Rose and unique exhibitions, the Monastery of the Holy Cross (IV century BC), as well as the Temple of the Book, which houses the famous “Dead Sea Scrolls”, Museum of the Biblical Land etc. The southern slope of the hill is occupied by a botanical garden.

Mount Herzl (Har Herzl) is home to the National Cemetery, where prominent Israeli figures are buried, and the Theodor Herzl (Benyamin Zeev) Museum. At the foot of the mountain lies the area of ​​Ein Kerem (“spring in the vineyard”), where, according to legend, John the Baptist was born. Now here you can see the churches of St. John (1674), the Visitation (1955), the monastery of the Sisters of Zion (1860), the Russian Orthodox convent (founded at the end of the 19th century) with the Church of the Icon of Our Lady of Kazan, the Catholic monastery of sisters Rosaries (1910), and also visit the Truga Music Center and a small synagogue with Chagall stained glass windows. On the Hill of Remembrance, west of Har Herzel, is the national memorial Yad Vashem (Eternal Memory, 1953), dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust, around which there is a park named after Janusz Korczak.

It is worth visiting the Art Gallery, the curious Latrun Museum in the Ayalon Valley - one of the best military museums in the world, with its own souvenir department, and the Monkey Park (80 thousand sq. m) in Kfar Daniel is also interesting. Near the train station are the Khan Theater in an ancient caravanserai building, the Church of St. Andrew (Bruce Church, 1927), the ruins of a Byzantine church and many ancient cave burials from the First Temple. To the east of the station is the hill of Abu Tor (Givat Hananiyah), which offers magnificent views of the Old City, the monasteries of Hakel Dama, St. Peter in Glockento, the Tomb of David, the Albert Music Center, and the Yaar-a-park area. Shalom, Hell and Kidron Valleys.

Mount Scopus (Gar-A"tzofim, 826 m) is located to the west of the city and is another magnificent observation point. The Hebrew University is located here. Outside the Old City there is also the famous Kidron (or Jehoshaphat) Valley with tombs from the beginning of our era, a church St. Magdalene, the Ratisbon monastery (1874), the tomb of Jason (2nd century BC), the largest synagogue in Jerusalem (1982) and one of the largest synagogues in Jerusalem - Yeshurun, as well as Gehal Shlomo (palace Solomon), Independence Park (Gunn-Atzmaut), Rubin Academy of Music and many other historical and cultural monuments.

The city has an incredible number of museums - the Rockefeller Museum, the Museum of the Lands of the Bible, the Museum of Mishkanot HaRozim (Bedouin life) behind the Governor's Palace, the Museum of Islamic Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Mandelbaum Museum, the Armenian Museum, the Tycho House Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences, Museum of Islam on the Temple Mount, Archaeological Museum of Woli, Museum of the Old Yishuv (Jewish Community), Museum of the Last Day, Museum of Taxes, Museum of the Turjeman House Guard Post, Funicular Museum, Ein Yael Museum-Studio of Ancient Crafts, etc. Of equal interest to tourists are the Biblical Zoo, Rabinovich Park with a giant statue of the “Monster”, the Akaron Children’s Theater (“trailer”), the Saker Park with attractions, as well as the Paamon and Dror parks.

Many open-air cafes and restaurants can be found on Ben Yehuda Boulevard in the bustling city center. Many pubs have appeared in the Russian Compound, in the very heart of the city, and the Talpiot area is considered a discotheque. Nachalat Shiva and Yoel Salomon streets are considered "young districts", and Feingold Court is home to some of Jerusalem's best restaurants. In July and August, local restaurants hold mini open-air culinary festivals every Tuesday evening. In recent years, the city's nightlife has also become noticeably livelier. From Jerusalem you can also make an interesting trip to the archaeological research sites in the Land of Canaan by jeep.

Netanya

The largest resort on the Mediterranean coast, a major center of citrus growing and the center of the country's powerful diamond industry. The city is famous for its clean beaches, modern recreational facilities and hotels, as well as an abundance of museums, among which the Beit Hagdudim (Jewish Legion) Museum, the Pninat Shivtea Israel Museum (Pearl of the Tribes of Israel), and the Museum of Archeology, Nature and Art stand out. , Municipal Gallery, Netanya Cultural Center and Yemeni Folklore Center. Most of the cozy restaurants and cafes are concentrated around Kiker Ha'atzmaut Square. South of Netanya lies the fashionable (and expensive!) resort of Herzliya, famous for its beautiful beaches and excellent marina.

Caesarea

Built by King Herod and serving as the capital of the country during the period of Roman rule, Caesarea was first mentioned in the mid-3rd century. BC e. Nowadays, almost the entire territory of the ancient city is included in the national park of the same name. The oldest preserved theater discovered in Israel, the ruins of the magnificent “Palace on the Reef”, the amphitheater of King Herod (Itztadion), sections of city streets from the Roman and Byzantine periods, a complex of public baths from the Byzantine period with magnificent decoration, a large artificial port of the Hellenic era and a fortified city -a port of the Arab period, the ruins of a temple complex in which buildings of the Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Crusader periods were mixed. Also interesting are the Square of Statues of the Roman period, the ruins of a synagogue of the Byzantine period, the remains of a Roman fortress wall, a hippodrome (2nd century AD), fragments of aqueducts and the Rally Museum.

Ashkelon

An ancient Canaanite port city and center of Hellenic culture, now just a small resort town on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Today, most of the city's ancient monuments are concentrated in the national park, which displays the ruins of Herod's colonnades and ancient synagogues, a Roman alley and amphitheater, the "Crusader Wall" and other remains of ancient structures discovered by archaeologists. On the coastal slope of Afridar beach there is a cave with the tombs of four members of a wealthy Roman family (III century AD), and on the top of the rock are the ruins of a Byzantine church (V-VI centuries) and a residential building with a fairly well-preserved mosaic floor. And, of course, excellent beaches along the entire city limits.

South of the country

Eilat

In the very south of the country, on the Red Sea coast, surrounded on all sides by a wall of high mountains and desert sands, lies the best seaside resort in the country - Eilat. Ancient Eilat, which bore the name Etzion Geber, was located on the El-Huleifa hill somewhat east of the modern city (now the territory of Jordan). The waters of the Gulf of Eilat (Aqaba) provide excellent opportunities for sea recreation and active tourism - more than 12 km of first-class beaches, the northernmost coral reefs in Eurasia, constantly warm and crystal clear water, geological wonders of the “King Solomon’s Mines” in the Timna Nature Reserve, the only one in World Biblical Wildlife Park, Red Canyon Hell and rare beauty of rocks, abundance of greenery and the most modern entertainment.

You can visit the Underwater Observatory in Marina Park, the Oceanarium, the Dolphin Reef, the Diamond Center, the "Texas Ranch", attraction number 1 in Eilat - "Journey to a Wonderful World" at the Hilton - Queen of Sheba Hotel, one of the most modern shooting facilities in the world shooting range at the Ambassador Hotel, or dive into the depths of the sea on the yellow submarine "Jacqueline" for 47 passengers, go to sea on the comfortable yacht "Jules Verne", catamaran "Atlantis-220" or "Coral Pearl". You can travel by jeep to the very heart of the desert, to Amudei Amram (Pillars of Abraham), to the “black canyon” of Shhorat, to Mount Yoash, Solomon’s Gorge with its developments of the famous “Eilat stone” or along the “red canyon” of Adom. Wildlife lovers will be interested in the coral shore of Almogim beach, the Hai Bar nature reserve, and history buffs can visit Jordanian Petra, the monastery of St. Catherine in Sinai or the ancient fortress of Massada, erected by King Herod the Great.

Eilat is also a duty-free zone, and the city's restaurants and nightlife - nightclubs, discos and shows - meet the most demanding tastes.

One of the most unique and amazing places on Earth is Israel. Thanks to its features, it attracts millions of tourists throughout the year. It is located among three seas, whose waters caress its coast.

Geographically, the country is located in the Middle East. There are many clear lakes, orchards, endless plains and slender mountains on Israeli territory. But along with natural beauties, this country has many historical monuments. Almost every locality has many unique attractions. The capital of this mysterious country is Jerusalem.

At the beginning of December 2017, Donald Trump announced the US recognition of the city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and the future transfer of the embassy from Tel Aviv. Trump announced what previous American presidents had promised to announce since 1995, but, not wanting to worsen the conflict between the Palestinians and Israelis, put it off. A wave of protests swept across the Arab world.

Just 5 months before this event, there had been clashes in the Old City of Jerusalem over Israel's installation of metal detectors on the Temple Mount. The fact is that in Jerusalem on the Temple Mount there are Arab shrines - Quubbat al-Sakhra and the El Aqsa Mosque. This is the site of the ascension of the Prophet Muhammad. Very close, on the western side of the mountain is the Western Wall, part of the destroyed Temple - the main Jewish shrine. The slightest attempts by one of the parties to strengthen their control over the city inevitably lead to bloodshed.

Jerusalem or Tel Aviv - which city is the capital

Jerusalem is truly a very interesting city for any tourist. And many consider it the capital of Israel. However, there is an opinion that modern Tel Aviv is the capital of an ancient country. There is no clear answer to the question of which city is the capital. Tel Aviv or Jerusalem: both cities are beautiful and deserve this title. But to understand this complex issue, it is necessary to study the history of the region in detail.

Israel is an ancient country, and Tel Aviv was founded not so long ago. In 1909 it was founded by a new Jewish community. The city developed rapidly and soon became the center. It was its rulers who proclaimed Tel Aviv the capital of the new country. Only after military operations did Jerusalem become the capital of Israel.

Only in 1950 was it officially announced that Jerusalem was the capital of the country. Modern Wikipedia also considers it the capital of Israel.

Tel Aviv is completely different from Jerusalem. This modern city has practically no historical attractions, and the ancient state should have a corresponding capital. That is why Jerusalem is officially the capital of Israel. The country has a capital that emphasizes the importance and uniqueness of the entire region.

Which city is the capital of the state of Israel remains an open question for many local residents. Some agree that this is Jerusalem, others disagree. For the business world and other countries, Jerusalem is the official capital, and for some representatives of the local population, it is Tel Aviv.

Jerusalem - the city of antiquity

The history of the ancient city was preserved in its architectural structures. Thanks to them, Jerusalem looks mysterious and unknown. Wall of Tears. The largest and most important temple in Jerusalem. It was created more than 3 thousand years ago, when Noah's Ark landed on the blessed land. A temple was erected on this site. But over time, its appearance changed and was supplemented with some elements. Nevertheless, it has retained its originality and uniqueness. The temple is very popular among tourists and pilgrims;

Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This is the site of Christ's crucifixion and burial. An equally important temple was erected on this holy place. This place represents all the suffering and torment of humanity. The doors of this sacred place are always open. Therefore, any tourist who comes to Jerusalem must visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre;

Valley of the Kings. This place is also very popular among tourists in Jerusalem, everyone is interested in the City of David, which is located in the Valley. Historians claim that it was from this place that the government of King David began. The Valley of the Kings has a huge number of unique structures and monuments.