Yemin Moshe was the first neighbor-hood to be built outside the Old City walls. With its windmill, beautiful alleys, active music and culture center and gorgeous view, Yemin Moshe is a sure bet when it comes to sightseeing in the holy city
The first Jewish neighborhood outside the Old City walls was built by Moshe Montefiore in 1860 and is today part of Yemin Moshe neighborhood. It is called Mishkenot Sha'ananim (Hebrew for 'Serene Dwellings') following the verse: "My people will live in peaceful dwelling-places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest" (Isaiah 32, 18). The neighborhood was, in fact, a long structure with 22 apartments that was intended for the poverty-stricken residents of Jerusalem. Since living outside the city walls was considered very dangerous at the time, Montefiore provided annual support to whoever dared live in the new neighborhood.
 Today, the neighborhood has a music center and a guesthouse for artists and intellectuals from Israel and abroad and attracts many tourists and visitors. Many international and local literary festivals take place here. One of the neighborhoods major attractions is the Windmill, which was built by Montefiore to provide occupation for the neighborhood inhabitants. The neighborhood is very popular with Israeli tourists and on Saturday the stone paved streets fill with the tatter of people. A tour in the neighborhood also affords the loveliest views of the Old City Walls and the surrounding area.
Walking down towards the Hinnom Valley, you will find yourself at the Jerusalem Cinematheque, one of the most important cultural establishments in the city. There, you can enjoy a meal or a coffee at Lavan, as you sit on the lovely balcony overlooking the view. Alternatively, you can enjoy a variety of excellent films showing at the cinematheque all year round, but especially during the acclaimed International Film Festival in July (though you might not have a seat on the balcony that time of year as the place is packed!).
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Mount Zion Hotel ****
