Old Jaffa Port

Old Jaffa is one of the most attractive places to tour in Tel Aviv-Jaffa. The city which has always been the entry to the ancient land of Israel is succeeding, even today, its traditional aromas and fragrances which have always characterized it There is a marina at the Port and many people sail from here on pleasure trips.

At the top of the hill is the Franciscan Church of St. Peter, which was established in the 17th Century, in which it is possible to visit the room where, the clergy strongly claim, Napoleon stayed after the capture of the city. One of the most important sites for Christianity in Jaffa is the house of Simon the Tanner.

Historians believe that Jaffa is the only port in the world which can boast uninterrupted in habitation throughout its entire existence. The biblical account mentions that the cedars from Lebanon for the construction of King Solomon’s Temple came in via Jaffa. Jonah departed from this city in his flight from God. Greek legend tells of the chaining of the beautiful Andromeda to the rocks facing Jaffa’s shore. Simon the Tanner lived in Jaffa, and it was here that the Apostle Peter performed a miracle. Roman legions, Richard the Lion Hearted, Napoleon and Turkish sultans all conquered the city; but with the eclipse of the Ottoman Empire, the city’s vitality declined. Towards the end of World War I, the city was conquered by General Allenby, ushering in the period of the British Mandate.

The port of Jaffa, (the sole port at the time) served as the point of entry for the increased Jewish immigration which came to resettle the land.

A variety of sea trips leave here daily to view the outstanding sight of the horizon of Tel Aviv-Jaffa from the direction of the sea. From the Port it is possible to climb narrow steps to the top of the Old Jaffa Hill.

Charles Clore Park is Located just north to the Port and is accessible by the new promenade that will take you all the way to Tel Aviv – around 20 minutes walk along the Mediterranean beach.

For a budget accommodation, Old Jaffa Hostel is an excellent choice which guests are accepted personally located not far from the port in the middle of Jaffa’s Oriental Bazaar – lively during the day, quiet at night and within walking distance to anything you need in the big city.

See Virtual tour of Old Jaffa Port >>