Western Wall (Wailing Wall) Tourism

The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall or in Hebrew 'Kotel,' is a revered site located in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. This ancient limestone wall is all that remains of the Second Temple of Jerusalem, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. It is considered sacred because it is believed to be the closest surviving structure to where the Holy of Holies was located within the Temple, which was the most sacred site in Judaism. Pilgrims and tourists come from around the world to visit this place of prayer and contemplation. The Wall is divided into separate sections for men and women in adherence to Orthodox Jewish tradition. Visitors often write prayers on slips of paper and insert them into the cracks of the wall. The area around the Wall includes archaeological parks and sites of significant historical interest that give insight into the ancient and medieval periods of Jerusalem. The Western Wall is a symbol of Jewish endurance and spirituality, representing the profound historical connections of the Jewish people to Jerusalem.