Jerusalem

Shalom!

The kvutzah came back from their free weekend rested and ready to continue their program. They have been in Jersualem for the past few days. The first day, they toured the Old City, including the Kotel (Western Wall). It was an emotional experience for the kids and allowed them to connect spiritually to the land. Afterwards, they spent the evening at a local shuk (flea market).

The next day, the kvutzah toured the tunnels underneath the Kotel, and were able to see many archeological excavations. They also toured the Southern tunnels. Afterwards, the kvutzah went to the City of David (http://www.cityofdavid.org.il/index.html), the remnants of the first settlements in Jerusalem.

The kvutzah also visited Yad Vashem, Jerusalem's Holocaust museum. It was very taxing on the kids, but they got a lot out of it. Afterwards, they went to Har Herzl, a hilltop national cemetary, named after Theodore Herzl. The kvutzah saw an interactive movie, learning about the history of the area, and then visited Herzl's grave, as well as Rabin's grave. Afterwards, the saw the military cemetary which is also at Har Herzl.

Today, the kvutzah is continuing to Ein Gedi, to start their desert tiyul (hiking trip) through the mountains there.

More updates soon!

Daphna