The picturesque port of Jaffa, on the Mediterranean sea just south of Tel Aviv,is an ancient one, claims to be the oldest port in the world, mentioned several times in the bible and its history is spanning over 3000 years.
Many legends are related to Jaffa from the story of Jonah and the whale, Greek legends of the beautiful Andromeda, and its foundation by Japhet, the son of Noah, captain of one of the most famous arks in history.
Some 3000 years ago Jaffa served Egyptian and Phoenician sailors for construction of King Solomons Temple, for trade of cedars from Lebanon and as a port city for pilgrims heading to Jerusalem.
Through the history, Jaffa was always a very desired city and knew conquerors and rulers from all over the world. All realized the military importance of the area and each conquered it in order to gain control and approach to the Holy Land of Israel.
Jaffa surrendered to King Richard the Lionheart on 1191, to the Ottomans at 1515, to Napoleon of France at 1799, and to the British led by general Edmund Allenby who conquered Jaffa in November 1917.
The old city is today is as it was then, rising up from the sea like a fortress on a hill, facing and making its mark against the waves of the Mediterranean sea. Through the years Jaffa was renowned for its oranges but not anymore. The port is still functional as a small fishing port, and currently serves as a recreational zone featuring cool restaurants, cafes and art galleries.
more of my photos of Israel are here:
please note the sizes:
Small size =12×8 inch = 30×20cm
Medium size =17.9×12 inch = 45×30cm
Large size = 23.9×16 inch = 60×40cm
Extra Large = 29.9×20 inch = 75×50cm