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Explore the Wonders of Marine Life in Israel at the Israel Aquarium, Jerusalem

Attractions travel guide

Israel Aquarium, Jerusalem, is the first aquarium in Israel built by the Gottsman family. The aquarium focuses on the conservation of habitats and marine environments in Israel, a contemporary challenge in nature conservation.

Visiting the aquarium will take you on a fascinating tour that highlights the marine habitats in Israel, including the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Sea of Galilee, and even the Dead Sea.

During your visit to the aquarium, you will be taken on a fascinating journey between the different marine habitats in Israel, in the Mediterranean Sea. The complex contains a variety of creatures ranging from shallow shore habitats to deep sea habitats. At the Red Sea displays you will get to know the colorful fish and corals that are unique to the sea.

The one-way route will lead you between the magical worlds of the sea and the creatures that inhabit it.

The aquarium was established in accordance with the recommendations of the National Program for the Conservation of Biodiversity in Israel. These recommendations emphasize the urgent and immediate need to preserve the marine environment in Israel. The habitats, fish, corals and other sea creatures are subject to many ecological threats – the pollution of the sea and its shores, overfishing and constant pressure from various factors such as tourism, trade, desalination, gas and oil drilling.

Due to all of these, the urgent need arose to build a center that would deal with conservation, research, education, information and raising public awareness for the preservation of the sea and its shores. This is the “Israel Aquarium, Jerusalem”

Visitors can enjoy the aquarium’s various exhibits, which showcase the wonders of the marine environment. The exhibits offer an opportunity to learn about the unique marine biodiversity found in Israel and the critical role that conservation plays in preserving this fragile ecosystem.

The aquarium is conveniently located in Jerusalem, making it easily accessible to visitors from different parts of the country. The Israel Aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the marine environment and contributing to conservation efforts in Israel.

Address: Derech Aharon Shulov, Jerusalem

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The Carmel market

The Carmel Market is the largest open market in Tel Aviv and the best place to buy fresh food and wonder around. Next to the market lies the Yemenite Vineyard, a small neighborhood with charming little streets and typical Yemenite restaurants. The Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) is the biggest marketplace in Tel Aviv and a fun place to visit. In the Carmel market you can find just about anything for the lowest prices in town, including different kinds of bread, olives, dried fruits, spices and so on. It is also the best place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fish and poultry. The clothing section is located next to Allenby Street, and you can surely find there a bargain or two. Just off the Carmel Market lies one of the most special neighborhoods in Tel Aviv. It is called Yemenite Vineyard (Kerem Hateymanim), originally formed in the beginning of the 20th century by the Jewish immigrants from Yemen. The municipality started renovating this area some 15 years ago, and walking through its narrow alleys and small houses is pretty inspiring. Accept for a walk in these charming little streets, you can make a stop in one of the small neighborhood restaurants. All of them serve traditional Yemenite cuisine, spiced with Hawhyedge, the most characteristic spice in the Yemenite kitchen. The neighborhood is located very close to the sea, so it can be a good stop on your way to or from the beach. Hotel Metropolitan at 11 Trumpeldor St. is just few minutes walk from the Carmel Market to the north. It is an affordable yet elegant lodging option next to the beach and the city center. Another nice hotel in this area is Sun City hotel at 9 Trumpeldor St., which is very well kept and quite intimate. It has a great location - next to the city's lively markets and shopping areas, and only 500 meters from the Mediterranean. Galileo Hotel, located in the heart of the Yemenite Quarter, one of Tel Aviv's first neighborhoods, is a picturesque hotel which will provide you with all the facilities of a budget accommodation in the best location. It is easy to find your way around the Carmel Market area using public transportation, because most buses have stops in the central Allenby Street. It is also located right off Shenkin St., which is another landmark you mustn't miss on your Tel Aviv visit.

A Unique Experience: Bird Migration in Israel

Every year, hundreds of millions of birds migrate from their breeding grounds in Europe and Asia to the warmer climates of Africa and the Middle East. One of the best places to witness this incredible phenomenon is Israel, where the birds travel through the country on their way south. For any birding enthusiast, a trip to Israel is a must-see experience! The Best Time To View The Birds The best time to see bird migration in Israel is during the fall months, when most of the birds are making their way south for winter. It’s not uncommon to see large flocks of thousands of birds at once, soaring over mountains and valleys as they make their journey south. There are also plenty of opportunities to observe different types of birds as they pass through – from small songbirds, to large raptors like eagles and vultures. Where To Watch The Birds There are several great locations throughout Israel that offer amazing views of migrating birds. One popular spot is Ma'agan Michael, which is a national park located near Haifa on Israel’s northern coast. Here you can get an up close view of thousands upon thousands of seabirds flying overhead – a truly unforgettable sight! Another great spot is Kibbutz Yotvata, which offers stunning views over the Negev desert below. It’s one of the few places in southern Israel where you can easily spot both resident and migrant bird species as they pass through on their way south. Conclusion: Bird migration in Israel offers an unparalleled opportunity for birders and nature lovers alike! Whether you want to get up close and personal with seabirds or watch raptors soar high above the desert plains, there are plenty of amazing spots throughout Israel that offer breathtaking views of these majestic creatures during their annual migration southward each fall. With so many great locations offering stunning vantage points, it's no wonder that birding enthusiasts flock (pun intended) to experience this incredible event firsthand every year! So what are you waiting for? Grab your binoculars and head out for an unforgettable adventure – you won't regret it!

Tel Shekmona National Park - Excursion Route Suggestion

Discover the hidden treasures of Tel Shekmona National Park, a gem set against the stunning backdrop of Haifa's coastline. Ideal for families and romantic outings, this short and scenic route offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, suitable for all ages. Starting Point: The Sea and Lake Research Institute, Haifa End Point: Return to the starting point Historical Significance of Tel Shekmona Recent archaeological discoveries have propelled Tel Shekmona into the spotlight as a site of global historical importance. Prof. Ayelet Gilboa and Dr. Golan Shloy, from the Zinman Institute of Archaeology at the University of Haifa, have unveiled findings that position Tel Shekmona, once a modest seaside site on the southern edges of Haifa, as a pivotal center of ancient industry. Their research, published in the archaeological journal of Tel Aviv University, reveals that Tel Shekmona hosted the world’s largest and most productive scarlet dye factory around 3,000 years ago. This operation was a remarkable synergy of the administrative acumen of the biblical kingdom of Israel and the skilled Phoenician workers who specialized in the complex processes required to produce this valuable dye. Prof. Gilboa drew parallels between Tel Shekmona and Tel Dor during our discussion, noting their shared historical trajectories. Initially a small fishing village that also produced scarlet dye, Tel Shekmona evolved into a significant industrial facility. In contrast, Tel Dor served as a principal port city. Both sites fell under the control of the Kingdom of Israel in the ninth century B.C. According to Prof. Gilboa, the primary motive for the kingdom’s expansion into the Carmel coast was economic rather than territorial or maritime dominance. The control of crimson dye production centers, like Shekmona, was likely a strategic move to dominate this lucrative industry. These findings enrich our understanding of the historical and economic landscape of ancient Israel and highlight the sophisticated industrial activities that flourished under its influence. Route Description: Begin your journey at the iconic Sea and Lake Research Institute, located directly on the waterfront. This marks both the start and end of a leisurely route that explores the lesser-known beachfront and delves into the area’s rich history. Adjacent to Tel Shekmona is the expansive Rosh Carmel Sea Reserve, where the Carmel Ridge extends into the sea, forming a unique underwater landscape. The marine reserve, stretching from the institute to Nahal Lotem’s mouth and westward into the sea, covers about 50,000 dunams. It not only preserves historical sites from the ancient settlement of Shakmona but also showcases geological wonders like weathered dolomite and limestone, and a unique reef formed by tuber family snails. After departing from the Sea and Lake Research Institute, head south to reach the national park. Recently rejuvenated, Tel Shekmona was transformed from a neglected dumping ground into a beautifully landscaped area. The park now features native coastal vegetation and several protected species, enhancing its ecological value. Climb to the top of Tel Shakmona for a panoramic view of the sea and the city. The site, known historically as a-Smak ("Mound of the Fish"), offers a vista sprinkled with archaeological remains dating back to as early as the 15th century BC. The area was a hub during the Byzantine era, evidenced by church ruins and intricate mosaic floors uncovered in multiple archaeological digs. Continue your walk south along the boardwalk, passing by excavation sites and the hewn "hot tub" pool in the sea. Loop back north through Hecht Park and cross to Alex Garden. Near the garden, explore the ancient Shakmona caves, used historically for burial. The route concludes with a return to the Sea and Lake Research Institute. How to Reach: Access the starting point next to the Sea and Lake Research Institute via Hubert Humphrey Street in Haifa. Please Note: Swimming at the beach along this route is not permitted. Embark on this enlightening excursion at Tel Shekmona National Park, where history and nature meet the Mediterranean Sea.

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