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I Show Jerusalem From A Different Perspective Behind The Lens
I Show Jerusalem From A Different Perspective Behind The Lens
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I Show Jerusalem From A Different Perspective Behind The Lens

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The city of Jerusalem is undoubtedly one of the most important cities in the world. It serves as a focal point for the world’s three main religions, has numerous famous sites of worship, and history that goes back thousands of years. With archeologists still unveiling its many secrets, the Israeli capital has evolved to be one of the most modern and vibrant cities in the Middle East.

Most of you are familiar with images of Jerusalem dominated by a golden dome, surrounded by ancient walls. But this only scratches the surface of what you should see. On the mainstream media, sometimes you’ll see scenes of conflict. But here too, the reality is much different – Jerusalem is where you can witness diversity and co-existence like in no other place in the region.

Having photographed the holy city for many years, I’ve had the privilege to experience it year-round and document the essence and spirituality of Jerusalem. This experience is beyond words.

So I’m happy to present you with 24 photos that will give you a different, insider perspective on Jerusalem as you’ve never seen it before. Make sure to check all the pages, and comment below to let me know what you think!

More info: noamchen.com

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    Start off by taking a stroll through the enchanting alleyways of the Jewish Quarter, where one can really feel the magic of the Old City.

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    Even if you’re not religious, some things you’ll witness can seem simply divine, as this beam of light shining on Jesus’ tomb.

    Jerusalem is an innovative city, one that fuses ancient walls with modern art, as evident during the yearly Festival of Light.

    The Festival is the best time to witness the balance between old and new, ancient and modern.

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    When seasons change and winter comes, the city can be mistaken for one of Europe’s capitals.

    Its neighborhoods wear a beautiful white blanket.

    The usually crowded Western Wall is left for the most dedicated of worshipers only.

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    And when storm is over, the city’s sheer beauty is revealed again.

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    Amazing sunsets can be enjoyed throughout the city. It could be a serene sunset overlooking Mount Zion.

    A glorious sunset viewed from the Mount of Olives.

    Or a spectacular one viewed from the mountains of Ein Karem.

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    Jerusalem also has some stunning views you would never associate with it, such as the idyllic setting of the city’s Biblical Zoo.

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    Or this Russian Church on top of the mountains.

    Jerusalem is a place to witness a fascinating history. Some sites are hidden underground, like this 5-acre (20,000 m2) cave underneath the Old City.

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    Other sites are impressively carved in rock, like these ancient tombs dating back to the period of the Second Jewish Temple.

    Jerusalem is a city of a people who respect their origins, as evident at the Western Wall, the holiest site in Judaism.

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    A city that remembers a painful past, at the renowned World Holocaust Remembrance Center, Yad Vashem.

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    A city of the present, home to picturesque lively neighborhoods such as Yemin Moshe.

    And a city that gently maintains the balance between the past and the future, as in the ‘Chain of Generations’ Center.

    Jerusalem is also a place of many festivities, whether it’s the joyful celebrations of the city’s reunification.

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    Or whether you’re celebrating the holidays by visiting, for example, a Christmas market in December.

    No matter the occasion, it will surely be a feast to the eyes!

    Ultimately, Jerusalem will always be a center for all religions that respect one another, as they live side by side.

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    And it’s only when you are in Jerusalem, that you’ll finally understand why so many consider it to be the birthplace of the world.

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    Noam Chen

    Noam Chen

    Author, Community member

    Read more »

    Landscape Photographer. Join me on Instagram: noamc_official Email: noamc75@gmail.com

    Read less »
    Noam Chen

    Noam Chen

    Author, Community member

    Landscape Photographer. Join me on Instagram: noamc_official Email: noamc75@gmail.com

    What do you think ?
    Ashley Say Wha?!?
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wow! That's the first time I've ever seen pictures of Jerusalem like that! My favorite (really all of them are my favorite) was the ancient burial sites, impressive! I've always wanted to go to Jerusalem but now I really, really wanna go! Thank you so much for sharing these! They are beautiful!

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm glad you've enjoyed them Ashley, thank you! You should definitely come visit, there is still so much more to see and enjoy.

    Load More Replies...
    Stcejbo Era Nemow
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wasn't expecting anything great when I clicked on this post but wow, these are really amazing.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    Mark Fuller
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stunning. So nice to see a side that doesn't represent all the negativity we're fed by the news...

    Mary Shriver
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I was able to visit Jerusalem (and Yad Vashem) and even though I'm not a religious person I was awed by the significance and beauty of Jerusalem and everything around it. It was one of my best holiday and I really want to go back to Jerusalem and Israel.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's wonderful Mary, you'll surely have so much more to see next time you go!

    Load More Replies...
    Mer
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is so much to love about the entity that is Jerusalem and these pictures capture a lot of it. Great job!

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There most definitely is much to love. Thank you Mer!

    Load More Replies...
    Elaine16
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your pictures are stunning and tell a much needed story. The view of Israel that the world sees is so terribly skewed. Somehow, people like you need to let others all over the world know that, although not perfect, Israel is a land where all can thrive in peace. All it takes is respect. Thanks so much for your efforts.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you so much Elaine! Couldn't agree more. Thank you for the lovely words :)

    Load More Replies...
    Cheryl Wilcox
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What beautiful photos! It's the first time I've ever wanted to see Jerusalem.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you Cheryl! Come visit if you can, seeing it all in person is a different experience altogether.

    Load More Replies...
    Jennifer
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not only is Noam a great artist, but a kind and humble person who took the time to valor, appreciate and respond to every comment! Top shelf!

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jennifer, thank you so much. I appreciate every comment, and yours in particular :)

    Load More Replies...
    Piet Zwanenburg
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Great pictures, thanks! Been way to long since I visited Jeruzalem and Israel, I really should go back again and see it's beauty with my own eyes again. And for the haters, people do live together there, it is only the bad news you hear about, don't judge if you have never been there, snowflakes.....;-)

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thanks Piet! Hope you'll come back for another visit soon :)

    Load More Replies...
    Jon Wong
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    christmas in jerusalem, one would never guess

    Jennifer
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You've shown us beautiful, stunning pictures that reflect views of Israel that I haven't seen before--thank you so much!

    Dave P
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wonderful pics, but one error in the labeling of one pic, you list of the Western Wall as the holiest site in Judaism, which is incorrect. The Holiest site is the actual Temple Mount, where Jews are prohibited from prayer by treaty with Jordan (Jews were banned from Praying up there after the Muslims took the city back from the Crusaders) and the Western Wall became the Holiest Spot where Jews were allowed to pray (Ancient Texts referred to the Western Side of the Temple Complex as the Holiest of the 4 Sides so that wall became the Jewish go-to place when the Temple Mount became off limits. Though today technically it is not the Holiest spot anymore as the holiest spot is an area in the underground tunnels that faces where the Holy of Holies room was, though that prayer area is for women only and off limits to men.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dave, thank you for your comment, I have to agree with you. I think the Western Wall is more commonly known as "the holiest site" in Judaism, but what you're saying is correct. There is also the "little western wall" bordering the Muslim quarter which should be included under that description as well.

    Load More Replies...
    Cinzia Sammarco
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you very much for let other people see the deepest soul of this beautiful places.

    Marketa Podlesakova
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Those photos are just amazing! Amazing photos of amazing place.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you Marketa! It sure is an amazing place, I hope you've had the chance to visit :)

    Load More Replies...
    malov alovi
    Community Member
    4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    HI My name is Jonathan Demme, am from France i will brief you more oncei hear from you as soon as possible i will like to discuss with you,but not here in boredpanda email me to (dj76354641@gmail.com) With Regards Jonathan Demme

    Eleanor Pan.
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Beautiful city and stunning photos!

    Tessa Bircham
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    To only show one of the 4 quarters seems a shame, Jerusalem is for all, and not just one. All of it is beautiful in each of its own ways, and it would have been nice to see the whole together, to represent all the natures of the city, while respecting them and your differences but while staying true to yourself and your beliefs. To unify and coexist.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tessa, this is about showing photos of Jerusalem from a different perspective. There's obviously a lot more to it and not every quarter could fit the concept of this piece :)

    Load More Replies...
    Coco
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It would be nice to show how Palestina looks, no? :)

    Arye Bognar
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stop the islamist imperialist oppression of Yazidis, Jews, Kurds, B'hais, Copts, Christians, Zoroastrians, Assyrians, etc, etc!

    Load More Replies...
    Nadine
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This land hides so much injustice, apartheid and sadness. Too much suffering continues to take place everyday.

    Yael
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have you ever been to Jerusalem Nadine? Because I have, many times. I can assure you that peace exists amongst it's residents. The communities work to coexist with one another and they strive to maintain a safe environment. A small group of people keep pushing for conflict and animosity, which is unfortunate. Your perception of suffering and injustice comes from the media. Had you actually taken the time to experience Jerusalem first hand, you would know what a beautiful city it truly is and how proud the people who live there are to call Jerusalem home.

    Load More Replies...
    Nadine
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This land hides so much pain and sadness and apartheid. It was built on a lot of injustice and continues to be

    Dave P
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You want to Free and old Roman/Byzantine administrative territory whose name was revived by the British for their local administrative area in the region during the British controlled days? I think The Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire and the British Empire are all gone by now

    Load More Replies...
    Nadine
    Community Member
    6 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    @yael , I have family from there. I do not visit as a tourist. I know the history first hand. So your argument does not stand with me. The recent history is one of horrible injustice. You don't build peace by kicking people from their home (or worse) and destroying their history. I do hope that one day everyone on earth learns to live in peace and love.

    Yael
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Having family there (which I doubt is true) is not the same as seeing it first hand. The majority of Israeli's wish for a free Palestine existing next to a free Israel, not instead of it.

    Load More Replies...
    Huanimalism
    Community Member
    6 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Propaganda thread... Jerusalem is occupied by an imperialist colonialist regime. Stop supporting apartheid systems. Jerusalem's natives are being kicked out to bring in colonial settlers in who has nothing to do with its heritage or history.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jerusalem's natives are the Israelites. The history of the Jewish people in the Land of Israel and in Jerusalem dates back 3000 years. It is supported by the Bible, and also by archeologists who keep unearthing more and more proofs that reveals the ancient history of the Jewish people in this land. In fact, yet another significant finding in the City of David made headlines just yesterday.

    Load More Replies...
    Ashley Say Wha?!?
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wow! That's the first time I've ever seen pictures of Jerusalem like that! My favorite (really all of them are my favorite) was the ancient burial sites, impressive! I've always wanted to go to Jerusalem but now I really, really wanna go! Thank you so much for sharing these! They are beautiful!

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm glad you've enjoyed them Ashley, thank you! You should definitely come visit, there is still so much more to see and enjoy.

    Load More Replies...
    Stcejbo Era Nemow
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I wasn't expecting anything great when I clicked on this post but wow, these are really amazing.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    Mark Fuller
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stunning. So nice to see a side that doesn't represent all the negativity we're fed by the news...

    Mary Shriver
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I was able to visit Jerusalem (and Yad Vashem) and even though I'm not a religious person I was awed by the significance and beauty of Jerusalem and everything around it. It was one of my best holiday and I really want to go back to Jerusalem and Israel.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's wonderful Mary, you'll surely have so much more to see next time you go!

    Load More Replies...
    Mer
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is so much to love about the entity that is Jerusalem and these pictures capture a lot of it. Great job!

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There most definitely is much to love. Thank you Mer!

    Load More Replies...
    Elaine16
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your pictures are stunning and tell a much needed story. The view of Israel that the world sees is so terribly skewed. Somehow, people like you need to let others all over the world know that, although not perfect, Israel is a land where all can thrive in peace. All it takes is respect. Thanks so much for your efforts.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you so much Elaine! Couldn't agree more. Thank you for the lovely words :)

    Load More Replies...
    Cheryl Wilcox
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What beautiful photos! It's the first time I've ever wanted to see Jerusalem.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you Cheryl! Come visit if you can, seeing it all in person is a different experience altogether.

    Load More Replies...
    Jennifer
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not only is Noam a great artist, but a kind and humble person who took the time to valor, appreciate and respond to every comment! Top shelf!

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jennifer, thank you so much. I appreciate every comment, and yours in particular :)

    Load More Replies...
    Piet Zwanenburg
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Great pictures, thanks! Been way to long since I visited Jeruzalem and Israel, I really should go back again and see it's beauty with my own eyes again. And for the haters, people do live together there, it is only the bad news you hear about, don't judge if you have never been there, snowflakes.....;-)

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thanks Piet! Hope you'll come back for another visit soon :)

    Load More Replies...
    Jon Wong
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    christmas in jerusalem, one would never guess

    Jennifer
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You've shown us beautiful, stunning pictures that reflect views of Israel that I haven't seen before--thank you so much!

    Dave P
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wonderful pics, but one error in the labeling of one pic, you list of the Western Wall as the holiest site in Judaism, which is incorrect. The Holiest site is the actual Temple Mount, where Jews are prohibited from prayer by treaty with Jordan (Jews were banned from Praying up there after the Muslims took the city back from the Crusaders) and the Western Wall became the Holiest Spot where Jews were allowed to pray (Ancient Texts referred to the Western Side of the Temple Complex as the Holiest of the 4 Sides so that wall became the Jewish go-to place when the Temple Mount became off limits. Though today technically it is not the Holiest spot anymore as the holiest spot is an area in the underground tunnels that faces where the Holy of Holies room was, though that prayer area is for women only and off limits to men.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Dave, thank you for your comment, I have to agree with you. I think the Western Wall is more commonly known as "the holiest site" in Judaism, but what you're saying is correct. There is also the "little western wall" bordering the Muslim quarter which should be included under that description as well.

    Load More Replies...
    Cinzia Sammarco
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you very much for let other people see the deepest soul of this beautiful places.

    Marketa Podlesakova
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Those photos are just amazing! Amazing photos of amazing place.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank you Marketa! It sure is an amazing place, I hope you've had the chance to visit :)

    Load More Replies...
    malov alovi
    Community Member
    4 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    HI My name is Jonathan Demme, am from France i will brief you more oncei hear from you as soon as possible i will like to discuss with you,but not here in boredpanda email me to (dj76354641@gmail.com) With Regards Jonathan Demme

    Eleanor Pan.
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Beautiful city and stunning photos!

    Tessa Bircham
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    To only show one of the 4 quarters seems a shame, Jerusalem is for all, and not just one. All of it is beautiful in each of its own ways, and it would have been nice to see the whole together, to represent all the natures of the city, while respecting them and your differences but while staying true to yourself and your beliefs. To unify and coexist.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Tessa, this is about showing photos of Jerusalem from a different perspective. There's obviously a lot more to it and not every quarter could fit the concept of this piece :)

    Load More Replies...
    Coco
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It would be nice to show how Palestina looks, no? :)

    Arye Bognar
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Stop the islamist imperialist oppression of Yazidis, Jews, Kurds, B'hais, Copts, Christians, Zoroastrians, Assyrians, etc, etc!

    Load More Replies...
    Nadine
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This land hides so much injustice, apartheid and sadness. Too much suffering continues to take place everyday.

    Yael
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have you ever been to Jerusalem Nadine? Because I have, many times. I can assure you that peace exists amongst it's residents. The communities work to coexist with one another and they strive to maintain a safe environment. A small group of people keep pushing for conflict and animosity, which is unfortunate. Your perception of suffering and injustice comes from the media. Had you actually taken the time to experience Jerusalem first hand, you would know what a beautiful city it truly is and how proud the people who live there are to call Jerusalem home.

    Load More Replies...
    Nadine
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This land hides so much pain and sadness and apartheid. It was built on a lot of injustice and continues to be

    Dave P
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You want to Free and old Roman/Byzantine administrative territory whose name was revived by the British for their local administrative area in the region during the British controlled days? I think The Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire and the British Empire are all gone by now

    Load More Replies...
    Nadine
    Community Member
    6 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    @yael , I have family from there. I do not visit as a tourist. I know the history first hand. So your argument does not stand with me. The recent history is one of horrible injustice. You don't build peace by kicking people from their home (or worse) and destroying their history. I do hope that one day everyone on earth learns to live in peace and love.

    Yael
    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Having family there (which I doubt is true) is not the same as seeing it first hand. The majority of Israeli's wish for a free Palestine existing next to a free Israel, not instead of it.

    Load More Replies...
    Huanimalism
    Community Member
    6 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Propaganda thread... Jerusalem is occupied by an imperialist colonialist regime. Stop supporting apartheid systems. Jerusalem's natives are being kicked out to bring in colonial settlers in who has nothing to do with its heritage or history.

    Community Member
    6 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Jerusalem's natives are the Israelites. The history of the Jewish people in the Land of Israel and in Jerusalem dates back 3000 years. It is supported by the Bible, and also by archeologists who keep unearthing more and more proofs that reveals the ancient history of the Jewish people in this land. In fact, yet another significant finding in the City of David made headlines just yesterday.

    Load More Replies...
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