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 Join Walter on his trips this week around Jerusalem and to an archaeological phenomenon only found in Israel.

Jerusalem’s Mayor Nir Barkat took a group of journalists to the northern neighbourhoods of his City to explain the ‘Masterplan 2000’ and how he intends to build 50,000 housing units to expand Jerusalem to one million inhabitants.                                                                                  

The plans are for both, predominantly Jewish and predominantly Arab areas.  Although Jews and Arabs prefer to live in their own neighbourhoods, the Mayor explained that there is a large amount of integration of the communities and he believes that this is a good thing.  

He is certain that building housing, schools and community centres in Arab areas will improve their quality of life and therefore diminish their sense of neglect which is the cause of demonstrations and riots.  If you think otherwise, please let me know.

Nir Barkat Mayor of Jerusalem

Also:The Ramon Crater in the far south of Israel or Makhtesh as is its correct name because it’s not caused by volcanic eruption, has long been a source of mining for building and other materials, causing almost irreversible damage to the environment.   This has now being halted and this many million year old archaeological phenomenon, only found in Israel, is being restored as best as possible to become a tourist attraction.  

Photo by: THE QUARRIES REHABILITATION FUND

Walter is taking you around the Makhtesh and its natural wonders.