Israeli antiquity

This item appears on page 15 of the March 2008 issue.

A street from Jerusalem, circa 500 B.C., in the city’s Archaeological Park. The structures on the left were shops. Photos: Faitek

In the Jerusalem Archaeological Park, Leon Faitek sat on the original steps that led to the Temple Mount.

At the Jerusalem Archaeological Park (Temple Mount Excavations, near the Dung Gate; phone 02-6277550, fax 7962 or visit www.archpark.org.il), you can walk on a street from 500 B.C. and look into the shops where pilgrims to the Temple used to buy their sacrifices.

You can climb down into ancient homes and see how the people lived. You can see the mikvahs (ritual baths) and the steps and the gates to the Temple that were used during the time of the first Temple.

There is an excellent visitor center that explains what you will see so you can better understand the times. You don’t need a guide, but you do need at least three hours to do this site justice.

(Entry, NIS30 [$7] adult, NIS16 senior or child. Guided tours, NIS160 [$40]; book in advance.)

JUDY FAITEK

San Diego, CA