Jerusalem began more than 5,000 years ago, on a hill near the Gihon Spring, just outside what is today the Old City. This long history, making it one of the oldest cities in the world, is what draws visitors to many attractions in Jerusalem, including archaeological sites, museums and holy places. And it is impressive to see where King David first built the city; where its Temples stood and many other aspects of history, including that of Christians and Muslims, and the various foreign powers that ruled Jerusalem over the millennia.

Modern Attractions in Jerusalem

At the same time, this is also a modern, thriving and growing city, and that is reflected in a different set of attractions in Jerusalem. The bustling Mahane Yehuda outdoor market reflects the diversity of the local population and cuisine, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to spices to baked goods, and turning into a lively place for bars, cafes, and restaurants after dark. The city’s Cinematheque and the Jerusalem Theater are also among the most exciting modern attractions in Jerusalem, showing films and plays and hosting other cultural events and festivals. Plenty of other attractions, including the Israel Museum and National Library, thrive on blending history with modern life. The Chords Bridge at the entrance of the city and the ever-expanding network of the light rail train also highlight the city’s modern side.

A Growing City

Jerusalem’s blend of old and new, and continued modern development are a reflection of Israel itself. SInce its founding, Israel has grown and developed rapidly as a nation, especially in recent decades as high tech has propelled the economy forward. The population also continues to increase, growth that is expected to continue. All of these factors are part of what is driving a wave of urban renewal in Jerusalem, as the city makes changes to thrive and support continued growth in the future.

While tourists focus on many of the attractions in Jerusalem, the city’s urban infrastructure is also growing. There are constantly new or renovated parks, schools, sidewalks and roads. Bike paths now connect much of the city, many of them leading or crossing the central park, Gan Sacher, with its green spaces, playground and exercise areas. The light rail train and electric buses make it easy to navigate the sprawling city, especially with help of locally-developed mobile apps like Moovit, which is now a global success. Apps like Moovit give users the best routes for public transportation, and allow them to pay with their phones. Other apps, like HopOn, also help with payment and charging up physical transport cards, known as the Rav Kav.

Rebuilding Jerusalem

The number of buildings is also growing rapidly in the city. Soon, there will be a large office park at the entrance of the city, creating more economic opportunities and reflecting the city’s ongoing business growth. One aspect of Jerusalem’s urban renewal that sets it apart are the government-supported programs to refresh and renew older buildings. Programs like “Tama 38” and “Pinui-Binui,” or “raze and build,” allow residents to receive new or upgraded apartments at little or no financial cost. Both programs require developers—not residents or apartment owners— to pay for construction, often adding rooms and balconies to existing apartments, or rebuilding apartments in new buildings. In return, developers are allowed to add additional new apartments, selling those to help fund the projects. 

The programs don’t just make apartments and buildings more spacious and modern to accommodate a growing population, but they make them safer. These projects strengthen buildings against earthquakes, make them more accessible to those with disabilities and include the addition of safe rooms that can protect against bombs or missile attacks.

While most tourists focus on the attractions in Jerusalem, taking a look around at the urban renewal and development of the city is also worthwhile, especially for those interested in economics and real-estate. For others, there is a spiritual element to the process, as the Bible and Jewish tradition promise the rebuilding of Jerusalem. That is again what we are seeing today.

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