New Gate Jerusalem
The New Gate, a 19th-century Christian gateway to Jerusalem's Old City, offers access to sacred sites and the start of the Via Dolorosa.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
New Gate Jerusalem
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The New Gate, a 19th-century Christian gateway to Jerusalem's Old City, offers access to sacred sites and the start of the Via Dolorosa.
"A vital Christian gateway into Jerusalem's ancient Old City, leading to sacred paths."
🎯 Dress Modestly Always
Cover shoulders & knees to respect religious sites. Shorts can attract stares.
🗺️ Use a Map or App
Navigate the Old City easily, especially from the New Gate to galleries.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New Gate Entrance
Northern edge of the Old City
The Christian gateway to Jerusalem's Old City, offering access to the Christian Quarter.
Via Dolorosa Path
Starts near the New Gate
Walk the 14 stations of Jesus's final journey, a deeply spiritual experience for many.
Golden Gate Views
Eastern wall of the Old City
See the sealed Golden Gate, believed by some to be where Jesus entered Jerusalem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Navigating the Old City
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly Always
Cover shoulders & knees to respect religious sites. Shorts can attract stares.
🗺️ Use a Map or App
Navigate the Old City easily, especially from the New Gate to galleries.
🚶♀️ Walk the Via Dolorosa
Trace Jesus's path with 14 stations; a profound experience.
📸 Golden Gate Significance
View the sealed gate, a site of prophecy for many Christians.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly Always
Cover shoulders & knees to respect religious sites. Shorts can attract stares.
🗺️ Use a Map or App
Navigate the Old City easily, especially from the New Gate to galleries.
🚶♀️ Walk the Via Dolorosa
Trace Jesus's path with 14 stations; a profound experience.
📸 Golden Gate Significance
View the sealed gate, a site of prophecy for many Christians.
🛡️ Old City Safety
Generally safe with many cameras; be aware of surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the New Gate a significant entry point to Jerusalem's Old City, particularly for accessing the Christian Quarter and the Via Dolorosa. Its historical and religious importance is frequently highlighted. However, some note that navigating the Old City's alleys can be challenging without a map, and advise on the necessity of modest dress.
"It's a very old part of Jerusalem . Many small shops and restaurants . Lots of tourists. It's easy to be lost there , better to find the guide who will show you the way to the Western Wall . Normally it takes 20 min to the Western Wall, but you can spend an hour if you don't know the direction. You can buy souvenirs here in small shops at chipper price."
Vasily Tregubov
"It's the first time for me to be in this area. I chose the perfect time! There was a small Christmas market at the entrance road. You can buy there street food, presents for the holiday and also sit down somewhere in one of the small restaurants /café they have there. Beautiful and historical place to be in"
Lola Dadon
"Jerusalem New Gate
The New Gate is the youngest of the Old City’s entrances, yet it serves a unique and vital role in connecting the ancient world with modern Jerusalem. Opened in 1889 by the Ottomans, it was created to give direct access to the Christian Quarter, particularly the French institutions and Christian pilgrims who had been settling in growing numbers outside the walls. Situated near the convergence of East and West Jerusalem, the New Gate symbolizes openness and dialogue between communities. Its design is simpler than the city’s older gates, but it exudes a special charm—especially in the evenings when local cafes, boutique shops, and cultural centers buzz with youthful energy. This gate leads into quieter, cobbled streets lined with monasteries, churches, and schools, many of which date back centuries. It’s also a meeting point for contemporary Jerusalem, where locals gather for music events, art shows, and street fairs that spill from the modern city into the Old. More than just an entryway, the New Gate reflects Jerusalem’s evolving character—a place where tradition meets transformation, and history walks hand-in-hand with renewal. For those seeking both the sacred and the current, the New Gate offers a graceful and welcoming threshold."
Stav Konchtyk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The New Gate is located on the northern side of Jerusalem's Old City walls. You can reach it by walking from various points in the city or by taking public transport to nearby bus stops. Many visitors enter the Old City through Jaffa Gate and then navigate towards the New Gate.
While it's one of the eight gates, signage can be minimal within the Old City. Using a map or a navigation app on your phone is highly recommended, especially if you're looking for specific locations like galleries near the New Gate.
Taxis can drop you off near the Old City walls, but they cannot drive directly through the gates. You'll need to walk the rest of the way. Jaffa Gate is a common drop-off point, from which you can walk to the New Gate.
The Old City is best explored on foot. The New Gate provides access to the Christian Quarter. Be prepared for uneven surfaces and stairs.
Yes, the Old City, including the area around the New Gate, is generally considered safe for tourists, with increased security and surveillance. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no ticket required to enter the New Gate or the Old City of Jerusalem. Entry through the gates is free and open to the public.
The New Gate, like the other Old City gates, is generally accessible throughout the day and into the evening. Specific hours can vary, but it's typically open from early morning until late at night.
The primary restriction is related to attire. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites within the Old City.
While possible, navigating the Old City with a stroller can be challenging due to uneven cobblestones and stairs. Zion Gate is often recommended as an easier entry point for strollers.
Walking the Via Dolorosa itself is free. However, some of the stations along the path are churches or chapels that may have their own entry policies or donation requests.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The New Gate leads directly into the Christian Quarter of the Old City, offering access to churches, markets, and the start of the Via Dolorosa. It's also a good starting point for exploring the Armenian and Jewish Quarters.
The New Gate, also known as the 'Gate of the Christians,' was built in the 19th century and provides direct access to the Christian Quarter, making it a key entry point for Christian pilgrims.
Crowds can vary significantly depending on the time of day and year. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded than afternoons or weekends. During religious holidays, it can become very busy.
Photography is generally allowed in public areas around the New Gate and within the Old City. However, be respectful and avoid taking photos of people without their permission, especially in religious settings.
Modest clothing is essential. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing to show respect for the religious and cultural significance of the area.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate stonework of the gate itself, the bustling activity of the Old City streets leading from it, and the architectural details of the Christian Quarter. The early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful photographic conditions.
Photography rules vary by religious site. While general photos of the exterior and public areas are usually permitted, it's best to check for specific restrictions inside churches or other holy places. Avoid flash photography where prohibited.
Try framing the New Gate with the ancient walls surrounding it. Walking a short distance into the Old City and looking back can provide a great perspective. The narrow alleyways leading away from the gate also offer charming photographic subjects.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wider street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the gate and narrow streets. Consider a comfortable camera bag for walking.
Selfies are generally acceptable in public areas, but always be mindful of your surroundings and avoid obstructing pathways or disrupting others, especially in crowded or sacred spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Navigating with strollers can be challenging due to cobblestones and stairs. Zion Gate is often recommended as a more accessible entry point for families with young children or those using strollers.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money on transportation, consider walking from your accommodation if it's nearby, or utilizing local buses. Avoid purchasing water or snacks from the most tourist-heavy stalls right at the gate; venturing a few alleys deeper can often yield better prices. Remember that modest dress is required, so investing in a simple scarf or longer clothing items can be a practical and respectful choice.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Jerusalem's Gates
Other notable gates include Jaffa Gate, a major historical entrance often bustling with activity, and the Golden Gate (also known as the Gate of Mercy) on the eastern wall, which is sealed shut and holds deep religious prophecy for Christians.
Understanding the role of these gates is crucial for navigating the Old City. They are not just entry points but also historical markers and cultural connectors. For instance, the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus is believed to have walked to his crucifixion, begins near the New Gate and winds through the Old City, with its 14 stations marked along the way.
Navigating the Old City: Tips from Travelers
Reddit discussions highlight that while the Old City is generally safe, being aware of your surroundings is always advised. Some users mention that the city has extensive camera surveillance, contributing to a sense of security.
When exploring, remember that modest dress is paramount. Covering shoulders and knees is expected, especially when visiting religious sites. This is a common piece of advice shared across platforms to ensure a respectful and smooth experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit