Andromeda Rocks

The rocks you see in the photographs below are associated with Greek mythology. According to the Greek legends, people of Jaffa chained the virgin Andromeda, the daughter of Cepheus and Cassiopea (Ethiopean King and Queen), to sacrifice her to a sea monster called Cetus to appease Poseidon, god of the sea. But Perseus, riding the winged horse Pegasus, beheaded the monster, rescued Andromeda, and married her. So many characters in a short story! Interestingly, all of them remain in memory through the names of stellar constellations we have.

The Jaffa Harbour

One of the most ancient ports in the world. There are claims extending even upto 5000 years for the harbour's history. As mentioned earlier, many of the Biblical events and historic battles fought for the port city makes this site very special. Today it is used only as a fishing port and a venue to buy fresh fish .

The Sea Barrier, Jaffa

The long stretch of concrete barrier to prevent sea waves reaching the port. I guess one can walk above them to the end that almost reaches the Andromeda rocks. But I couldn't trace the entrance to the barrier and didn't want to make it there at any cost. Blame the hot sun.

The Clock Tower, Jaffa

The three-storied clock tower with its 4 clocks was built in 1906 to mark the 25th anniversary of the reign of the Turkish Sultan Abd al-Hamid the II. Usually the starting point for all tours in Jaffa.

The Great Mosque and the Sea Mosque (3P).

The Great Mosque or Mahmudiye Mosque was built in 1810 by the Ottoman governor Mahmud Pasha alias Abu Nabut. The minaret of this mosque is a landmark seen from all over Jaffa. Outside the mosque is a water fountain (sabil) for pilgrims built at the same period (see 4P). The Sea Mosque/Jami al-Bahr/ al Bahr Mosque is Jaffa's oldest mosque. Built in 16th century, it is called the mosque of local fishermen.