Day Tour:
Walking Through Christian Jaffa: From Faith to New Beginnings
Welcome to Jaffa, one of the world’s oldest port cities, a place where Bible stories, ancient pilgrimages, and pioneering dreams come alive by the sea.
This special tour invites you to explore Jaffa through a Christian lens — from Jonah’s journey to Peter’s vision, and on to the American and German communities who helped shape the city’s modern face.
Tour Description
Sacred Hills and Living History
Begin your day at the Old Jaffa Port, a harbor steeped in both biblical and historic significance.
It was through this ancient gateway that cedars for Solomon's and Zerubbabel’s Temples arrived. It was also here that Jonah boarded a ship to Tarshish, trying to flee God’s call — a moment that still inspires reflection today. Standing by the waves, you’ll feel the deep spiritual pull that has made Jaffa a starting point for pilgrims across the centuries.
A short walk along the narrow alleys brings you to the House of Simon the Tanner, where Peter stayed during his time in Jaffa.
Just up the hill is St. Peter’s Church, one of Jaffa’s most striking landmarks.
Built by Spanish Franciscans in the late 19th century, the church stands atop the remains of a medieval fortress. Inside, colorful stained-glass windows tell the story of Peter’s miracles in Jaffa — including the raising of Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead.
From St. Peter’s, stroll north through the heart of Jaffa’s old city toward the Jaffa Clock Tower, standing tall at the edge of the bustling market square.
Built in 1903 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdul Hamid II’s reign, the tower represents the merging of Jaffa’s ancient past with its push toward modernization.
Next, dive into the lively atmosphere of the Jaffa Flea Market (Shuk HaPishpeshim). This colorful maze of antique shops, artisan stalls, and vibrant cafés has been the heart of Jaffa’s social life for generations. It's a perfect place to soak up local culture, enjoy a coffee, and perhaps pick up a handmade souvenir or two.
Your final destination is the American-German Colony, located just a few minutes' walk south of the market. Founded in 1866 by American Protestants from Maine and later revitalized by German Templers, the colony is a rare glimpse into 19th-century Christian settlement efforts in the Holy Land.
Tour Highlights
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Old Jaffa Port – Walk where Jonah set sail and pilgrims landed.
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House of Simon the Tanner – See where Peter’s vision changed Christianity forever.House of Simon the Tanner – See where Peter’s vision changed Christianity forever.
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St. Peter’s Church – Visit the church celebrating Peter’s miracles and ministry.St. Peter’s Church – Visit the church celebrating Peter’s miracles and ministry.
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Jaffa Clock Tower – Explore a symbol of Jaffa’s unity and modern growth.Jaffa Clock Tower – Explore a symbol of Jaffa’s unity and modern growth.
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Jaffa Flea Market – Dive into local life with antiques, art, and street cafés.
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American-German Colony – Discover the legacy of American and German Christian settlers in Jaffa.