1. Crusaders and Churches: St. Peter’s Monastery
St. Peter’s Monastery is top of the sightseeing list in Jaffa. This Roman Catholic church, built in Baroque style, was constructed in the late 19th century on top of a 13th-century Crusader castle, which was, in turn, built on top of the original settlement’s acropolis. Today, it is Jaffa’s most well-known landmark.
The name of the monastery is in honor of the Apostle Peter’s visit to Jaffa. From the courtyard here, a staircase leads down to the vaulted chambers of the Crusader castle.
The church is open daily to casual visitors and, although it’s not particularly old, it’s well worth viewing the interior decoration with its lemon and blue frescoed ceiling.
Location: Kedumim Square, Jaffa
2. Junk and Treasure: Jaffa Flea Market
Many visitors’ favorite thing to do while in town is have a rummage through Jaffa’s flea market in search of a special treasure to bring home.
For shoppers and sightseeing tourists alike, the market is one of the great joys of a visit to Jaffa. If you fossick hard enough (and are lucky enough), you could indeed find a real gem.
Bargaining is the name of the game, so you’ll have to put your haggling hat on.
The surrounding area has plenty of cafés and dining options for when you’ve finished browsing the stalls.
Location: Off Olei Zion Street, Jaffa
