Shabbat Experience Walking Tour

The Jewish Shabbat introduced the world to the idea of the weekend - learn about the origins, history, and curiosities of the holy day on this walking tour of Jerusalem's historic centre.

Shabbat Experience Walking Tour

At the scheduled time, we'll meet at the Jaffa Gate to discover the meaning of Shabbat for the Jews. This holy day begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday. Torah reading, rest, and prayer are common practices during the Sabbath.

First, we'll explore the Jewish quarter, focusing on the Four Sephardic Synagogues: Eliahu Ha-Nav, Yochanan Ben-Zakai, Istanbul, and Kahal Tsion. We'll discuss each synagogue and examine their ornamentation.

Next, we'll walk through the centre of the Old City of Jerusalem to the Hurva synagogue, built by Sephardic Jews who migrated from Spain and other European countries. There, we'll learn about the events following the devastating fire caused by opposing forces.

This Shabbat tour includes a visit to the Western Wall, significant due to the Jewish people's lament over the destruction of their holy site. Participants will have the opportunity to insert a wish into the wall's crevices.

Finally, we'll return to the starting point to conclude the activity about two hours after departure.