Is the German Colony walking tour Jerusalem difficult?

No, this is an easy, flat walk suitable for all fitness levels. The terrain is primarily paved city sidewalks and level park paths, making it accessible for strollers and those with limited mobility.

What is the best time to explore the German Colony?

Late afternoon is ideal as the sunlight hits the Jerusalem stone and the neighborhood comes alive with locals. Avoid Friday afternoons when shops begin to close for the Sabbath, unless you prefer a very quiet atmosphere.

Who were the Templers in Jerusalem?

The Templers were members of the Temple Society, a German Protestant sect that moved to Palestine in the 19th century. They believed that living in the Holy Land would bring about the second coming of Christ and they built several distinct 'German Colonies' across the country.

Can I see the inside of the Templer houses?

Most of the original Templer houses are now private residences or businesses. While you can't enter the private homes, you can visit public buildings like Hansen House or enjoy a meal inside the historic stone structures that now function as cafes.

Are there restrooms along the walking route?

Yes, public toilets are easily accessible at the start of the walk in Hansen House and at the end of the route in The First Station complex.

Is this neighborhood walk family-friendly?

Absolutely. Children often enjoy the open spaces at Hansen House and the old train tracks at The First Station, which features a carousel and various food stalls.

Is the Templer Cemetery open to the public?

The cemetery has limited hours and is often locked. However, the gate is wrought iron, allowing visitors to see the historic headstones and the memorial even if they cannot enter the grounds.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a slice of 19th-century Europe nestled in the heart of the Holy City with this self-guided walking route through Jerusalem's German Colony. Established in the late 1800s by the Temple Society—a group of German pietists who moved to the Holy Land to prepare for the second coming—this neighborhood offers a striking contrast to the ancient stone of the Old City. As you begin your self-guided adventure, you will discover a district defined by its red-tiled roofs, shuttered windows, and lush gardens, all built with the meticulous craftsmanship characteristic of German architecture. This neighborhood stroll isn't just about the buildings; it is an exploration of a community that sought to blend European modernity with biblical heritage, leaving a permanent mark on the city's urban fabric. The route takes you from the historic villa of the Museum of Natural History to the hauntingly beautiful Hansen House, once a secluded hospital and now a vibrant cultural hub. You will wander down Emek Refa'im Street, the colony's main artery, where historic lintels still bear German inscriptions above the doorways of trendy cafes. The walk also visits the solemn Templer Cemetery, where the names on the headstones tell the stories of the families who built this community. For those interested in the industrial history of the region, the route leads to The First Station, the beautifully restored terminus of the Jaffa-Jerusalem railway that once connected these colonists to the world. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, this walking route Jerusalem offers a quiet, contemplative way to see a side of the city often missed by the crowds. Explore independently and at your own pace as you uncover the fascinating, complex, and sometimes controversial legacy of the Templers in Jerusalem.

Highlights

The distinctive European-style stone villas of the German Colony

Hansen House, a former leper asylum turned cultural center

Biblical inscriptions on the historic lintels of Emek Refa'im

The quiet, reflective atmosphere of the Templer Cemetery

The First Station, Jerusalem's restored 19th-century railway hub

The intersection of German pietism and Middle Eastern architecture

Tour Stops (6)

Museum of Natural History

Start exploring with Zigway at this hidden gem. This grand 19th-century villa, known as the Villa Dekan, was built by a wealthy Armenian businessman before being used by the Templers. It serves as a perfect introduction to the neighborhood's architecture, featuring high ceilings and thick stone walls designed to keep the interior cool during Jerusalem's hot summers. Today, it houses a modest natural history museum, but the real draw is the surrounding garden and the sense of stepping back into a more tranquil era of the city's development. Notice the blend of local stone with European proportions.

Hansen House

Just a short walk away lies Hansen House, originally established in 1887 as the 'Jesus Hilfe' asylum for those suffering from leprosy. Designed by German architect Conrad Schick, this walled compound was once an isolated world of its own, complete with its own farm and gardens to sustain the patients. For decades, it was a place of mystery and seclusion. Today, it has been brilliantly repurposed as a center for design, media, and technology. As you walk through the grounds, you can still feel the serenity that was intended to provide comfort to the residents over a century ago.

Emek Refa'im Street

Emek Refa'im is the heart of the German Colony. As you stroll down this vibrant street, look up above the doorways. You will see several homes featuring German inscriptions, such as 'Eben-Ezer,' reflecting the religious devotion of the original Templer residents. The Templers were skilled craftsmen and farmers who introduced modern agriculture and industry to the region. Today, the street is a mix of historic preservation and modern life, where the original stone houses now host boutiques and restaurants, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Jerusalem.

Templer Cemetery

Tucked away behind a stone wall on a side street is the Templer Cemetery. This is the final resting place for many of the colony's founders and their families. The headstones here bear names like Hoffman and Hardegg—the leaders of the Temple Society. Walking through these quiet rows offers a moment of reflection on the dreams and challenges of these European settlers. The cemetery is also home to a memorial for the Templers who were deported by the British during World War II, marking the bittersweet end of their presence in the Holy Land.

The First Station

Following the path of the old tracks, you reach The First Station. Opened in 1892, this was the terminus of the Jaffa-Jerusalem railway, a revolutionary project that shortened the journey from the coast from two days to just a few hours. The Templers were instrumental in the logistics and commerce that the railway enabled. After decades of neglect, the station was restored as a pedestrian leisure hub. You can still see the original station building and the tracks, which have now been converted into the 'Park HaMesila,' a popular walking and cycling path.

Immanuel Church

While our walking route focuses on Jerusalem, the story of the Templers is inextricably linked to their other settlements. Immanuel Church, though located in the American-German Colony of Jaffa, represents the pinnacle of their architectural and spiritual legacy in Israel. Built in 1904, its neo-Gothic spire and stunning stained glass are hallmarks of the German influence on the landscape. It serves as a sister site to the Jerusalem colony, reminding us that these settlements were part of a larger network of pioneers who sought to create a 'spiritual temple' through their physical labor in the land.

Frequently Asked Questions

A thorough self-guided walk typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. This allows for about 10-15 minutes at each major stop, such as Hansen House and The First Station, plus walking time along Emek Refa'im.