Jaffa, a municipality in the south of Tel Aviv, Israel, has one of the world’s oldest ports. Once known as the “Bride of the Sea” because of its location along the Mediterranean, it’s been in constant use for at least 7,000 years.
Jaffa is a natural harbor that has held great military and monetary significance since its inception, with a broad view of the coastline that allowed for easy departure and defense. The Egyptians even controlled the area for quite some time.
The Bible speaks of Jaffa many times, first in Joshua 19:46. It was the port used by Solomon to build the Temple (2 Chronicles 2:16) and where Jonah left for Tarshish (Jonah 1:3).
In the New Testament, Tabitha (Dorcas) was brought back to life by Peter in Joppa (Acts 9:36). Soon after, God gave Peter the vision of the unclean animals and commanded him to preach the Gospel to Gentiles and Jews alike (Acts 11:4-17).
Today it still operates as a port, with fishermen embarking for their daily catch, but now they share space with tour boats, yachts and even a few houseboats.
Midron Park lies just south of the Old Port. It opened in 2009 on the site of what was previously a pile of dirt and sand. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
Art galleries, a theater, a cafe and several restaurants are popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. So, too, is a gelato shop and gaming facility. The country’s most high-profile 24-hour news channel, i24NEWS, even calls the port home.
This Saturday market draws locals and tourists to its wares. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
On the weekends, there are concerts to be seen and heard and a large market to be shopped at this Mediterranean seaside port.
And then, of course, there are the beautiful seaside views witnessed both from the port itself or, a little further south, from Midron Park, a new addition to the area. With its elevated position along the coastline, it makes for the perfect dusk destination.
Jaffa Port on the Mediterranean coast is also good for water sports, as can be seen here. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
A snack kiosk serves the crowds who come down to the port to enjoy the sea views. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
The old lighthouse in Jaffa was built in 1865. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
A dedicated fisherman still at work as the sun sets on the Mediterranean Sea. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
Jaffa Port has become home to several art galleries, including this one, the Jaffa Art Salon. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
Container is a popular late-night destination in Jaffa Port. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
A news station, several restaurants, a gelato shop and a gaming space operate out of the port’s main building. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
A port-side view of the main building. (Photo: Zach Pontz)
Originally posted at From the Grapevine.