Experience Ramadan in Jerusalem

Known in Arabic as Al-Quds, and home to more than 280,000 Muslims, Jerusalem is an important place of pilgrimage for followers. It is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which–along with the Kaaba in Mecca and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina–is one of Islam’s three holiest sites. The Dome of the Rock, a shrine located on the Temple Mount, also plays an important role as it marks the place from which Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven in the 7th Century.

Experience a mouth-watering iftar feast with a Palestinian family in Al-Azariya (also known as Bethany), a city on the eastern slopes of the Mount of Olives in the West Bank. A typical meal includes traditional dishes like maqluba, which literally means upside down, a Palestinian dish of rice, chicken and fried vegetables, and atayef, sweet pancakes stuffed with cheese or nuts.

The Muslim Quarter is the largest of the Old City’s four quarters. Here you’ll find mazes of alleyways, cobblestone streets, a vibrant shuk and architectural relics from centuries ago. It’s an unmissable destination. The Quarter is also home to Via Dolorosa, an important Christian site that marks the first nine Stations of the Cross. During Ramadan the area buzzes with the energy of the celebrations. The smell of food from the nearby market permeates the balmy night sky as Arabic music plays, and locals enjoy traditional delicacies, such as kataif pancakes, and sip tamarind and almond drinks.

With special thanks to Finjan. Images courtesy of Gabi Berger www.myisraelimemories.com