Jerusalem,
2 days

You probably think it's a mosque, but it's not. It is actually an Islamic shrine. The dome is the visual symbol of Jerusalem and made of real gold (!). The interior and exterior of the structure are decorated with beautiful marble, mosaics, and metal plaques. The wide raised platform surrounding the dome is open and a bit dull to be honest, but the Dome of the Chain adjacent east is very lively with mothers chatting away.

Tip!

Don't take selfies. It's a holy place and the safety guards 'kindly' help you remember.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is one of the most important sites in the world for Christians. It sits within the Christian Quarter of the walled Old City and claims to have within its walls the locations of both Christ’s crucifixion (Golgotha altar - the darker picture) and his resurrection (Aedicule, Jesus' tomb). Quite a devote place to visit.

Tip!

Notice the Immovable Ladder on the right upper-story window at the entrance. It's "immovable" because no one of the six ecumenical Christian orders may move, rearrange, or alter any property without the consent of the other five orders.

Amidst the archaeological remains in the Citadel’s courtyard the story of Jerusalem unfolds through giant breathtaking, virtual reality images. The visualizations on the walls of the Citadel are jaw-dropping. Don't miss it. The show takes about 45 minutes and is in open air.

Tip!

FYI....cameras are not allowed ;)

The Western Wall is the most religious site in the world for the Jewish people. Did you know that the Wall is a surviving remnant of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem and it is here, on Mount Moriah, that Isaac was bound for sacrifice. And it is here that his son Jacob dreamed of the ladder ascending to heaven.Although other parts of the Temple Mount retaining wall remain standing, the Western Wall is especially dear, as it is the spot closest to the Holy of Holies, the central focus of the Temple. Well, I didn't! ;)

Tip!

Ha-Tamid street gives you the best view (viewing deck Aish HaTorah).

Located at the foot of the western slope of the Mount of Olives, you find this church. The church is cut into a rock and to get to the tomb of Virgin Mary you have to descend a vaulted staircase area. The cave you end up in, has something mystical about it. It's dark, hundreds of oil lamps hang from the ceiling and the place is filled with ancient paintings. A good place to rest.

Mahane Yehuda is comprised of several full blocks of small, narrow stalls selling everything from fresh citrus to loose candy. It is overwhelming: the colors, the smells, the cries of bargaining salesmen and shoppers. Just go!