Castel National Park (גן לאומי קסטל) is an Israeli national park consisting of a fortified summit. It is located in the Judean Mountains in the former Arab village of Al-Qastal. It is located 8 km west of Jerusalem, connecting to a road leading to Tel Aviv (Highway 1). The site is mostly known as the place of the key battles of Operation Nachshon, which were held in April 1948 during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War. Fierce battles that claimed many lives took place there as Arabs and Jews fought for control of the site, which overlooked the main Tel Aviv-Jerusalem highway. The Castel exchanged hands several times in the course of the fighting. The tides turned when the revered Arab commander, Abd al-Qadir al-Husayni, was killed. Many Arabs left their positions to attend al-Husayni’s funeral at the Al-Aqsa Mosque on Friday, April 9th. That same day, the Castel fell to the Israeli forces, virtually unopposed. The national park includes a memorial for the Israeli soldiers who died there. In 1980, Yitzhak Yamin designed a monument to honor these fallen soldiers. Additionally, there is a memorial representing the convoys who attempted to break through the blockade of Jerusalem.
Archives: Directory listings
Directory listings
Bible Lands Museum
The Bible Lands Museum is an archaeological museum in Jerusalem, Israel, that explores people mentioned in the Bible and their cultures. These include but are not limited to ancient Egyptians, Canaanites, Philistines, Arameans, Hittites, Elamites, Phoenicians, and Persians. The museum aims to put various people covered into a historical context. The museum is located on Museum Row in Givat Ram, between the Israel Museum, The National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel, and the Bloomfield Science Museum.
The American Colony Hotel
Discover Timeless Elegance at The American Colony, Jerusalem
The American Colony Hotel in Jerusalem is not just a luxurious stay—it’s a voyage through time and culture. Steeped in historical significance, this landmark hotel captures the essence of the city’s rich past through its pristine Ottoman architecture and design, exuding an elegance that has gracefully withstood the test of time. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by a blend of antique charm and modern comforts, accented by verdant gardens and tranquil courtyards which invite you to unwind and reflect in a serene oasis amidst the bustling city.
The strategic location of The American Colony places you at the crossroads of Jerusalem’s colorful tapestry of life. Beyond the bounds of its storied walls lies a city teeming with ancient sacred sites, buzzing marketplaces, and culinary delights, all within walking distance. The hotel’s amenities cater to every need, interlacing luxury with practicality—a testament to its commitment to providing an unparalleled cultural experience. Whether lounging in the sumptuous rooms, savoring the local and international cuisine in the hotel’s restaurants, or exploring its art-lined halls, your stay at The American Colony is more than mere accommodation; it’s an immersive journey into the soul of Jerusalem.
King David Hotel
Welcome to The King David Jerusalem Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Jerusalem, The King David Jerusalem Hotel stands not only as a luxurious accommodation but as a landmark of cultural and historical significance. This iconic hotel, which has hosted royalty, presidents, and dignitaries, offers its guests an unparalleled experience that marries grandeur with the deep-rooted heritage of the city. From its strategically favorable location, guests are bestowed with breathtaking views of the Old City and are within walking distance to many of Jerusalem’s sacred sites. Whether you’re visiting the Western Wall, exploring the vibrant streets of the new city, or simply soaking in the rich history that surrounds, the hotel’s location serves as the perfect gateway to discover Jerusalem’s unique tapestry of past and present.
Stepping through the doors of The King David Jerusalem Hotel, one is transported into an ambiance of timeless elegance. Every detail of the hotel’s architecture and design pays homage to the distinctive beauty of the Land of Israel and its rich history. The property’s majestic facade and lush gardens encapsulate the essence of serenity and prestige. Within, the hotel boasts an array of amenities designed to cater to the needs and comforts of the discerning traveler. From fine dining choices providing gourmet experiences to luxurious suites and cutting-edge facilities, every detail is meticulously designed to elevate your stay. Engage with the city’s heritage through the hotel’s cultural programs or rejuvenate in the tranquil spa and pool areas. The King David Jerusalem Hotel is more than just a place to stay — it is a passage to an immersive cultural saga steeped in the legacy of Jerusalem.
Ochlim B’Shuk
11 years ago, Naomi and Aharon opened Ochlim B’Shuk in the center of the Jerusalem market, Machne Yehuda, where around the clock there are pots steaming on kerosene burners. Everyday, there are at least thirty different pots brewing on the stovetop at this local hotspot, and upon opening each pot, one will be introduced to a different world of the explosive flavors of Syrian and Persian food.
Tahini’s Hummus
The Tahini hummus family was born in Sderot, in 2010, out of a need we identified in our areas in the south, in the Gaza Envelope – an area where we were born and lived all our lives. The need was for a pleasant and homey meeting place, where you can by chance (or not by chance …) encounter a familiar face, eat a delicious, nutritious meal and at a fair price. We are encouraged to do it a little differently, with the understanding that the place is the people within it and the experience we will give is created in every meeting we have with you – as guests in our home.
The restaurant in Sderot was a great start but after two years of investment, growth and success we expanded the store and now have locations in Beersheba, the capital of the Negev, as well as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
We offer popular, comforting, fresh and pampering food for all and have many vegan-friendly dishes as well. On the menu is a variety of hummus dishes with toppings, crispy fries, green falafel and perfect vegetable salad chopped fresh each day. Everything is made fresh every day in our kitchen with lots of love. Of course, our desserts are also homemade, the beer is excellent and there is also arak!
Sima
The mythical meat restaurant whose name has been around for over 40 years is in the heart of the Mahane Yehuda market.
Sima immigrated from Iraq in the early 1950s, and has always “had it” in everything to do with cooking, business, and the joy of life. In 1969, Sima initiated the establishment of the Jerusalem restaurant on Agrippa Street in the Mahane Yehuda market, which proudly bore her name – Sima.
In the beginning, the restaurant was based on home cooking and satisfied the hunger of the market workers. Over the years, the name of the restaurant went before it when the flagship dish was and is – the Jerusalem mix and the dinner crowd expanded beyond the residents of the capital.
Moshiko Shawarma
Moshiko falafel and shawarma was established in1985 at 5 Ben Yehuda Street, on the main pedestrian street in the city of Jerusalem. In those days, the sidewalk was a focal point for events in the city (even before the era of malls), and Moshiko boasted its quality of food, abundance, freshness and variety of salads offered. Customers come from all walks of life – veteran Jerusalemites, tourists from within and abroad – and all flocked to the place. They continue to visit Moshiko with a lot of love and appreciation for a place that over the years has become a very well-known Jerusalem symbol and institution.
At Moshiko you will find, apart from the excellent food, a magical atmosphere that signals that you have come to just the right place. A place where you will enjoy delicious, healthy and fresh food, strictly kosher in Jerusalem with a supervisor close by. In general, the entire food preparation process takes place on site – the baking of pitas and production of all the dishes, including the huge variety of salads.
During 2009, Moshiko became a chain and opened another branch in Ramat Beit Hakerem – the “Moshiko Grill Bar” restaurant. During 2010, another branch of “Moshiko” was opened in Mevaseret Zion. Moshiko maintains a high level of quality, freshness and service. Do not forget to come hungry!
Falafel Shlomo
Sometimes falafel is not simply about the ingredients, but the experience itself. Falafel Shlomo is located in a Bukharian neighbourhood and is a Yemen establishment with quite a few years under it’s belt. Through the winding alleyways, one can find this small haven and enjoy a delicious falafel with a Yemen touch. Shlomo’s falafel is crispy, slightly spicy, and extremely addictive!
Morduch
Morduch, the Kurdish legacy, is a family establishment which opened in 1982 and has been feeding thousands of more-than-satisfied diners over the years. From its acclaimed kubbeh soup to its outstanding moussaka, it is no wonder the restaurant flourishes to this day. The fantastic food is made from only the freshest ingredients, and Morduch serves as a reminder of what makes genuine homestyle cuisine. Although the founder, Mordechai ‘Morduch’ Agai, passed away in 1990, his traditions and culinary style have been kept very much alive and are strictly observed by his successors. If it is mouth-watering food and a homely and welcoming environment you are after, then Morduch is just the place for you.
