Wailing Wall

Wailing Wall (Western Wall) is the remains of the fortification structures that were erected by Herod the Great near the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. This was the site of the Second Temple of Jerusalem – it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. The Wailing Wall was not part of the Temple, but it is close enough to it that it has become the most significant shrine for the Jewish people. For many centuries, large numbers of believers have gathered here, the place serving as a center of pilgrimage and prayer. The earliest source that connects the Jews with the Wall dates back to the 4th century. The structure is 57 meters long and 19 meters high.

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Video: the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem

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History and origin of the name

‘ Praying‘
Separation of the Wailing Wall into two zones

Traditions and customs

Notes in the crevices of the wall
Israeli army soldiers write a note

The text of a wish is written in any of the languages, and the length of the message varies from a couple of words to entire messages. Quite often the notes quote passages from the Bible. People ask God for health, prosperity, salvation and good luck. You can use any paper – its size and color do not matter. What is important is the sincerity of the wish and its clear statement, so it is worth thinking over the text of the request in advance. After placing the note between the stones, it is customary to give some money to charity. You can share food with a beggar or help the infirm. If a person wants to get what he asked for, he should demonstrate a willingness to change for the better.

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According to Jewish beliefs, the prayer notes of the Wailing Wall are not to be thrown away or burned. Several times a year they are collected and buried in the Jewish cemetery on the Mount of Olives. The tradition of leaving messages to God is welcomed by people of different faiths, so everyone has the opportunity to leave a note.

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Western Wall Tunnel

Wailing Wall

The cost of the visit is 25 shekels for adults and 15 shekels for children. There is no need to pay to visit the attraction during the holidays.

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Entrance to the Wailing Wall tunnel is only allowed to tourists with guides by prior arrangement. Tours in Hebrew and English are conducted with groups of up to 30 people. Tourists stay downstairs for an hour and a half, and visiting is available from 7am to 11pm, until lunchtime on Friday. Tours are not available on Saturdays and public holidays.

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