Tel Aviv Excursions
Jaffa © IMOT
Jaffa
The historical port city of Jaffa is easily reached from Tel
Aviv by foot or car. Its inhabitants have included notable
biblical, Greek and Roman figures and its name is said to have been
derived from Japhet, Noah's son. Archaeological finds indicate that
Jaffa existed as a port city 4,000 years ago serving both Egyptian
and Phoenician sailors on their sea voyages. The entrance to the
Old Town is marked by the Ottoman Clock Tower, a prominent landmark
and meeting point. Jaffa has become a popular tourist attraction
filled with interesting shops, Mediterranean style restaurants and
sun-drenched cafes. There are artist quarters, studios and
galleries as well as shops specialising in Judaica and archaeology.
At night the historical walls are illuminated, revealing a
beautiful architectural backdrop offset against the soft lapping of
the sea onto the ancient port walls. An exploration into Jaffa's
history can be experienced at the Jaffa Museum that contains a
dazzling collection of artefacts (It is located at 10 Mifratz
Shlomo Street, Old Jaffa and is open from Sunday to Thursday
between 9am and 1pm).
