Jaffa Port, Tel Aviv

Jaffa Port can be found right at Tel Aviv’s southern end beachfront, and it’s known for being one of the oldest ports in existence. The Jaffa Port has served the Holy Land for over 3,000 years as a fishing port and welcomed travelers, pilgrims, immigrants, conquerors, and merchants from all over the world, so it’s a very interesting spot. Today, the port has been restored and preserved in its entirety, so it’s a lovely historic area where ancient stone lanes take you right to the edge of the water. Not to mention there are many cafes, restaurants, and art galleries all around the area!

Jaffa Port History

Jaffa Port is so ancient that it’s even mentioned in the Old Testament. It was already an established port on the limestone cliffs as far back as the Canaanite Period, which is 18th century BC. This port changed hands many times between the 15th century and 1st the century BC. It has been ruled by Egyptians, Israelites, Philistines, Assyrians, Ottomans, British, and even Syria and Alexander the Great. Among the most outstanding historic facts of the port we have that King Solomon’s Temp in Jerusalem was actually built with materials that were received in the Jaffa Port, and it was also the point of arrival for St. Peter in the 1st century BC.

Jaffa Port Highlights

From the Jaffa Port you’ll be able to take a look at Andromeda’s Rock, where, according to Greek mythology, King Cappaus tied Andromeda to a rock, causing Perseus to fly down on his winged horse to rescue her beloved from monsters of the sea. Another incredible highlight is that you can find old warehouses that now serve as bars, galleries, nightclubs, and cafes. The Jaffa Port has also earned quite the reputation among foodies all around the world thanks to its many sublime eateries.

To explore Jaffa Port join our Tel Aviv Highlights City Tour or Tel Aviv Region Private Tour.