When we moved to Israel 11 years ago,
one building in the neighborhood stood out,
or rather stood lower and different than the others.
Beit Kedima, Kedima House, was built
by the British in 1945 to house its officers’ families.
The Jerusalem streets are lined with history.
These old Yemin Moshe streets are a favorite.
Next to it is Mishkanot Hashaananim.
Look up and see
this row of houses was built in 1865
under auspices of Sir Moses Montefiore.
For details of Jerusalem architecture,
this man, David Kroyanker,
literally wrote the book, or books, to be more precise,
“Jerusalem Design: God is in the Details.”
Jewish Design Identities,
also Christian, Muslim and Modern.
Did you know that the Scarab was a symbol of resurrection,
or that in Templer houses swastikas were used in floor tiles?
Or those colorful paintings on Muslim houses
were added after pilgrimages to the Haj in Mecca?
So what better way to learn about Jerusalem,
than with the man who wrote the books.
From the grounds of St. Andrews, the view of the Old City,
and these lovely gardens are for all to see.
One year, Mayor Nir Barkat chose this location to launch
the Jerusalem Marathon.
However,
how many Jerusalem visitors have gone inside
and noticed this intricate tiled fountain,
as we did on a Jerusalem Press Club sponsored tour.
Around the corner and down Emek Refaim Street,
look up.
Is that Einstein over this entrance?
No.
It is another Jerusalem lion carved in stone.
How many have walked by and noticed the Biblical passages
carved on these old Templer buildings?
“The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.” Psalm 87:2
Down the other end of Emek Refaim Street
look for one, “Always tip the Guide,”
Ethics of our Fathers REVISED edition.
An informational sign was posted at Beit Kedima
explaining its significance.
In August 1947,
UNSCOP delegates worked on their recommendations
for the future governance of Palestine here.
It is hard to imagine this was a secluded location at the time,
now the area is so built up, it is hard to find parking.
Some buildings are impressive.
Some have signs explaining their history.
When you walk the Jerusalem streets,
be sure and look up,
and see the details.
