The Ancient Jaffa Port of Legends and Conquerors
by Ron Shoshani
Title
The Ancient Jaffa Port of Legends and Conquerors
Artist
Ron Shoshani
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Photograph
Description
Jaffa, a charming port town located on the Mediterranean coast just south of Tel Aviv, boasts an impressive history that spans over three millennia. It claims to be the oldest port in the world and has been mentioned in the Bible several times. The town has been linked to many legends, such as the story of Jonah and the whale and Greek legends of the beautiful Andromeda. It was founded by Japhet, the son of Noah, who was the captain of one of the most renowned arks in history.
Jaffa served as a port for Egyptian and Phoenician sailors to construct King Solomon's Temple, trade cedars from Lebanon, and for pilgrims en route to Jerusalem 3000 years ago. It was a coveted city that saw conquerors and rulers from across the globe who recognized its military importance and conquered it to gain control over the Holy Land.
Jaffa has been ruled by various kingdoms throughout its long history, with over 20 conquests by the likes of the Egyptians, Phoenicians, Babylonians, Philistines, Assyrians, Maccabees, Seleucids, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Mongols, Mamluks, Ottomans, French and British.
Jaffa surrendered to King Richard the Lionheart in 1191, the Ottomans in 1515, Napoleon of France in 1799, and the British led by General Edmund Allenby in November 1917. The town has remained mostly unchanged, rising from the sea like a fortress on a hill and facing the waves of the Mediterranean.
While it was once known for its oranges, the town has evolved and the port now serves as a small fishing port and a recreational zone with trendy restaurants, cafes, and art galleries.
Uploaded
January 10th, 2012
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