One thing Jerusalem, Israel, does not lack is a slow news day.
The cycle of events whirls by so quickly it is hard to keep up.
This week it seemed as if we were on fast speed with highs and lows.
Jerusalem streets were a mess from road construction closings. Then the spring-like weather came to an end. Winter rains pounded down and heavy winds slowed traffic to a crawl.
However, as always, more was happening on the Jerusalem streets.
Here is what you may have missed…
KNESSET at NIGHT
It had been a long time since I had been at the Knesset at night, the new blue lighting was impressive.
Across the road, the new entrance to the Wohl Rose Garden was also impressive.
“United we will win” plus yellow ribbons on the Knesset, and a list of no-nos greet you.
There was a special showing of the movie “CENTERED: Joe Lieberman” hosted by MK Ohad Tal.
Oh, how, we could use some politicians with his moral compass now, in the US and Israel.
WESTERN WALL NEW TOUR
It was a glorious day in the sunshine on the Jerusalem streets.
New soldiers were at Jaffa Gate and around the Old City. Always amazed how for many it is their first experience in Jerusalem and going to the Kotel, Western Wall, and learning the history.
The Western Wall Heritage Foundation has added new a audio-visual event for tourists.
It is fast-moving to capture the attention of young visitors, as the center changes with historical periods.
The visuals changed from the foundation stone to the Roman expulsion to modern times.
From the newest high tech, we went down to the oldest of levels of Jerusalem streets.
Not open to the public yet, these areas are being carefully excavated by archeologists, bit by bit.
The earliest levels are being exposed under the Western Wall Plaza.
Not under the Temple Mount, but in the areas near it, built over the millennia.
An old Ottoman area home is being exposed,
with interesting stones on the walls
and a place for a mezuzah on the doorpost.
When the tour opens it will be another fascinating look at the history of Jerusalem.
From the roof of the building, there was a clear view of the structural work being done on the plaza.
New supports must be laid to keep the current ground level stable with the underground excavations.
The Great Bridge Tour has been developed since my last visit in 2021 during Hanukkah.
The Roman theater and walkways improved,
but the draw and wonder of the ancient stones is eternal.
Near the end of the tour is a stop at the Western Wall Synagogue.
It is an impressive place to pray on Shabbat and holidays.
KOSOVO EMBASSY
The Kosovo Embassy hosted its annual International Holocaust Remembrance Day with the participation of Yad Vashem, marking 80 years since the liberation of Auschwitz. A survivor and her family were highlighted with the launch of their new biographical book.
SHAON HOREF
The Jerusalem streets near Kikar Safra, Jerusalem’s City Hall Plaza are usually deserted after dark on the winter cold nights. The Shaon Horef— Winter Noise Festival attempts to entice people to come to Jerusalem streets on Mondays nights during the winter.
Shushan Street was the first venue on the first February Monday night with lights and music playing.
There are 4 more Monday nights, the last on March 3, 2025, each based on a different Jerusalem street.
In the past I got a shot glass, this year colorful stickers were the giveaway.
The festival is aimed to draw young Israelis to explore lesser-known Jerusalem streets and eat and drink
However, on the Jerusalem streets, while you can tour, eat, drink, and celebrate, reminders of October 7 and the hostages are always a few steps away.
Next Year in Jerusalem for all.
Am Yisrael Chai!
