Israel-©-MEA-20170531-(N177)- -Art- in-Jerusalem- Bus-Station-Relief
At the Central Bus Station
When in Jerusalem’s Central Bus Station, a person cannot but notice this very large relief of key tourist sites in and around Jerusalem. The Montefiore Windmill (center-left) which stands high above many of the other buildings was one of the first landmarks to be erected outside the Old City Walls. It was named after its founder, Moses (or Moshe) Montefiore, a British Jewish philanthropist funded its construction which was completed in 1857 for use as a flour mill.
However, by 1891 it was phased out as a flour mill because the newly-invented stream-powered wheat-grinding mills were more cost productive. Nevertheless, and because of its unique design, it remained as a culturally significant tourist attraction. In Israel’s 1948 War of Independence, Jewish fighters used it as an observation platform, and consequently, was bombed by British forces who sided with the Arabs in their attempt to prevent Israel from defending the whole of Jerusalem.
Today, the windmill has been restored as is a small museum, surrounded by the upmarket neighborhood of Yemin Moshe. This relief also includes other notable buildings in and around Jerusalem, one of which is David’s Citadel seen fourth from the right.
Next time in this city, don’t forget to board a bus for one of the many scenic trips. You can travel by bus to just about anywhere in Israel, and if you are pleasant enough and willing to to strike up a conversation with a local Israeli on the bus, you will find that they are most forthcoming when it comes to talking about their homeland and its many interesting features and places.
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