Bored Panda works better on our iPhone app
Continue in app Continue in browser

BoredPanda Add post form topAdd Post Search
Tooltip close

The Bored Panda iOS app is live! Fight boredom with iPhones and iPads here.

I Show Jerusalem From A Different Perspective Behind The Lens
User submission
2.3K
11.2K

I Show Jerusalem From A Different Perspective Behind The Lens

ADVERTISEMENT

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

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.

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

ADVERTISEMENT

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

ADVERTISEMENT

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

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.

ADVERTISEMENT

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

ADVERTISEMENT

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.

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

ADVERTISEMENT

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.

ADVERTISEMENT

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.

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

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.

ADVERTISEMENT

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.

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.

11Kviews

Share on Facebook
You May Like
Popular on Bored Panda
Start the discussion
Add photo comments
POST
ashbobash avatar
Ashley Say Wha?!?
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
maryshriver avatar
Mary Shriver
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
circular-motion avatar
Mer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

estherkashnow avatar
Elaine16
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
winonalouise avatar
Cheryl Wilcox
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
jencon16_1 avatar
Jennifer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

jpzwanenburg avatar
Piet Zwanenburg
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.....;-)

jencon16_1 avatar
Jennifer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

davenyc88 avatar
Dave P
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
flaneska avatar
noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
malovalovi avatar
malov alovi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated 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

tb231 avatar
Tessa Bircham
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
cocora-embra avatar
Coco
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

sophiabd13 avatar
tartturc avatar
Arye Bognar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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-mezher avatar
Nadine
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

emilyjones_1 avatar
Yael
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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-mezher avatar
Nadine
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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

chinita_505 avatar
davenyc88 avatar
Dave P
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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-mezher avatar
Nadine
Community Member
5 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.

emilyjones_1 avatar
Yael
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
majdalnijim avatar
Huanimalism
Community Member
5 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
greencoat234 avatar
Some Body
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Too little auschwitz! Where are dead jews? Good jew is a dead jew!

ashbobash avatar
Ashley Say Wha?!?
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
maryshriver avatar
Mary Shriver
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
circular-motion avatar
Mer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

estherkashnow avatar
Elaine16
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
winonalouise avatar
Cheryl Wilcox
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
jencon16_1 avatar
Jennifer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

jpzwanenburg avatar
Piet Zwanenburg
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.....;-)

jencon16_1 avatar
Jennifer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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!

davenyc88 avatar
Dave P
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
flaneska avatar
noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
malovalovi avatar
malov alovi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated 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

tb231 avatar
Tessa Bircham
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
cocora-embra avatar
Coco
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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

sophiabd13 avatar
tartturc avatar
Arye Bognar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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-mezher avatar
Nadine
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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.

emilyjones_1 avatar
Yael
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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-mezher avatar
Nadine
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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

chinita_505 avatar
davenyc88 avatar
Dave P
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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-mezher avatar
Nadine
Community Member
5 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.

emilyjones_1 avatar
Yael
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
majdalnijim avatar
Huanimalism
Community Member
5 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.

noamc75 avatar
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated 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...
greencoat234 avatar
Some Body
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

Too little auschwitz! Where are dead jews? Good jew is a dead jew!

Popular on Bored Panda
Trending on Bored Panda
Also on Bored Panda