We don't get to see much of Jerusalem's secular history, so this past week I went with a group to Ammunition Hill. This was the site of some intense trench fighting during the Six Day War of 1967. Jordan was in control of East Jerusalem and the Old City. Israel simultaneously launched attacks on the Egyptian troops in the Sinai and the Jordanian troops to the east. The visitor center at Ammunition Hill explained the events of the war by shining different colored lights on model of the city.
Of course the most photographed part of the site was the tank. The signs were all in Hebrew, so hopefully none of them said "No Climbing."
This bridge does not go over a creek;it's over a 5-6 foot deep trench. A maze of narrow trenches covers part of the hill and you can wander around to the different posts. This would be an awesome place to play capture the flag
Later that day we went to the Tower of David. Ruins from every time period since the Canaanite times (Iron Age) are visible from this platform.
This is a minaret. It was added to the tower complex during the Islamic period.
The Tower of David is attached to the Rampart walls. This little hallway has alcoves with holes in the wall so you can pour hot oil and molten lead on your enemies. Oil and lead will boil you dead.
The tower of David is next to Jaffa Gate, which is the border between East and West Jerusalem. Here's a map for all of you visual learners.
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