Friday, 24 February - Jerusalem Museum

Hard to believe - the last touring day for CAARI 2017.  And, what an exceptional day it was.  The weather was perfect - our best day. We were were soaking in the warm temperatures and savoring the sunshine!

The site, the Jerusalem Museum, was within walking distance of our hotel and David, our guide at the museum, made the tour come to life!
The Museum is located in the medieval citadel known as the Tower of David, near the Jaffa Gate, the historic entrance to the Old City. This museum is a fascinating archaeological site with  a magnificent 360-degree view of the Old City of Jerusalem as well as the city’s modern areas. As in the CAARI tradition, we walked up and down steps and staircases as we toured.  

An exciting visit for CAARI, within the Museum walls, was site known as the “Kishle.  The structure was erected in 1834 by Ibrahim Pasha who governed the Land of Israel (Palestine) from Egypt.  When the Ottoman Turks regained the area in 1841, the “Kishle” continued to serve as a military compound. During the period of the British mandate, it was used as a police station and prison where some members of the Jewish underground were also incarcerated.

Today, the prison is separated from the police station and is an integral part of the Museum complex. Archaeological excavations have unearthed remains from as early as the 6th century BCE and walls from the time of King Herod, as well as evidence from the Middle Ages. 

As so, Neil summed up out tour with a view of a 19th century model of Jerusalem.  After, we all set out for last minute shopping, visiting and walking around on this lovely day.  

We had our traditional Shabbat dinner and enjoyed a lovely Oneg Shabbat.  And, now the group begins departures and we conclude CAARI 2017 with dinner Saturday evening- a wonderful year with a great group of participants.  
Shabbat Shalom!