Jaffa Tel Aviv, Israel

Jaffa City is one of the most ancient cities in Israel. In Hebrew, the name means Yafo. The city was first inhabited about 7500 year ago. Being a seaport, the city was anciently called the Bridge of the Sea. The ancient city was built on a 40 meters high ridge, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Its natural harbor and fertile soils made the city a strategic prize. For countless times, it was conquered and re-conquered by several countries and armies, including Canaanites, the pharaohs, Phoenicians and king David. It was thus a strategic military base. In the recent years, the city has been regenerated with the old streets, becoming a highly desirable city to visit.

Today, some parts of the Jaffa Old City, Tel Aviv, Israel have been renovated with unique designs, making Jaffa a major tourist attraction in Israel. The city now features old restored buildings, theaters, art galleries, restaurants, souvenir shops and promenades. The modern Jaffa city hosts a huge population of about 46,000, a mixture of Jews and Arabs. The huge population helps run the numerous tourist activities that include sight and museums, churches and monasteries, the flea market, the port and visitor center among other tourist attractions. In this guide, we have provided you with some of the top places that you can visit in Jaffa:

An Uplifted Seaport.In the recent past, the old Jaffa port was a habitat and hangout place for fishermen, sailors and the homeless. After numerous renovations, the port is now full of life and rich culture, ranging from galleries, bookstores and cafes to some of the most trending nightclubs in the Middle East. From the port, you can easily spot the old rock of Andromeda. The rock cliff is linked to Andromeda, the daughter of the man who is mythically believed to be the founder of the city. During the day, you can as well book some kayaking lessons at the shops established along the port. The port is one of the best places to go for photos, especially during early evenings when the sun light is at its softest.

Jaffa Flea Market.You would not wish to complete your Jaffa tours before visiting the Flea market. The market features a mixture of Israeli and Middle East commodities. It is in this market that you will find rare Israeli antiques tracked back to the early 1960s. New and second hand cotton clothes from Middle East and Persian carpets are widely sold. The rich and beautiful collection of African shakshuka, Evil Eyes amulets and Israeli fashion designs will definitely catch your attention. Apart from a wide collection of clothing, the market is also the host of Israel’s best hostels; the Old Jaffa Hostel, where you can comfortably enjoy your sleep amidst the coolest evening night atmosphere.

The Great Mosque.The Great Mosque, also known as the Mahmud Mosque was put up in a series of stages. Although there have been many renovations and re-constructions, the Mosques was initially constructed back in the early 19th century by the then Ottoman Governor of Gaza; Mahmud Pasha, from whom the mosque was named. He was locally known as Abu Nabut, meaning father of the Cudgel.

The Great mosque features a very unique architecture. However, the architectural uniqueness happened as a mistake. The builders mistakenly set antique Roman Columns upside down with the capital at the foot, resulting to the present design of the mosque.

Stomp with Mayumana.Mayumana provides you with exceptional entertainment: unique Israel theater dance that combines humor, rhythm, Israeli chutzpah and visual effects. The Mayumana show is located in between Jaffa old port and old city, making it accessible to all tourists. The show was initiated back in 1996. Today, the show troupe has greatly expanded, accommodating international artists and performers touring Israel. It’s fun seeing the artists performing.

House of Simon the Tanner.The small mosque is located off HaMigdalor Street, Jaffa. It is said to have been built at the site of Simon the Tanners house, where Apostle Peter resided after raising Tabitha. Although no one is allowed to enter the site, you can easily see the facade from outside. The site is particularly of great importance in Christian belief. It is at this site that Apostle Peter experienced a dream convincing him to convert Romans into Christianity, a religion that was begun by Jesus Christ.

Green Space, HaPisgah Gardens

Sitting on these wonderful and tranquil gardens, you will have a clear view not only to the Tel Aviv city, but also across the Mediterranean Sea. There is a wooden bridge, also known as wishing bridge that connects the gardens to central Jaffa. Archeological activities in the recent years led to the construction of a six-meter thick wall as well as a town gate that is named after Pharaoh Ramses II.

Centers of Cross-Cultural Heritage

The Jaffa Old City, Tel Aviv, Israel hosts several centers whose aim is to reduce conflicts among various religions and races in Israel. These centers include the Arab Jewish Community that brings together the inhabitants of Jaffa to enjoy diverse food and the Peres Center for Peace that provides room for peace dialogue.

The Promenade Park on Top of the Landfill

lt the recent past, the Jaffa seaside was just an ugly collection of waste, especially iron and cement remains from construction activities. Today, increased pressure from national and global environmental activists has forced private developers from the seashore. The efforts have led to establishment of picnic areas and sandy beaches from where you can enjoy the calm offshore breezes. You can comfortable enjoy the diversity of Jaffa by riding a rented bike along the seashore boardwalk stretching to the north end of Tel Aviv.

Old Jaffa Visitor Center

The Visitor center has established a shop within an old chamber, just of the main square. From this shop, you can easily find all information on tourist attractions and other things that you could do while in the city. To boost the services offered from the shop, there is worthwhile audiovisual presentation on the history of the Jaffa city. It gives you a general image of the city and the historical events that have seen it develop into the modern day city