Jericho Old Town

البلدة القديمة أريحا

The historic heart of Jericho featuring narrow winding streets, traditional Palestinian architecture, markets, and centuries-old buildings. Walking through the old town provides authentic cultural experiences and encounters with local life.

Things to do

• Explore the Souk — Wander through the bustling traditional market with vendors selling spices, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs in narrow alleyways.
• Visit the Mosque of Prophet Saleh — Explore this historic mosque located in the old town, known for its traditional Islamic architecture and spiritual significance to locals.
• Browse the Khan (Caravanserai) — Discover the restored traditional merchant inn that once housed traveling traders, now featuring local artisan shops and cultural exhibits.
• Photography Walk at Sunset — Capture the warm light on ancient stone buildings, narrow passageways, and daily life scenes that define the old town's character.
• Visit Local Coffee Houses — Spend time in traditional Palestinian cafes where locals gather to drink strong coffee or tea and play backgammon or dominoes.

Food to try

• Kunafa — A sweet Palestinian dessert made with shredded pastry, cheese, and pistachios soaked in sugar syrup, best eaten warm from local bakeries.
• Hummus — Creamy chickpea puree with tahini and lemon, served as a staple breakfast dish with warm pita bread and olive oil.
• Falafel — Deep-fried chickpea balls seasoned with herbs and spices, sold fresh from street vendors and eaten in pita bread with tahini sauce.
• Musakhan — A traditional Palestinian dish of roasted chicken with sumac and onions served over flatbread, reflecting centuries of local culinary tradition.
• Fresh Fruit Juices — Vendors throughout the old town press fresh orange, pomegranate, and lemon juices served ice-cold during warm afternoons.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — Wear long pants or skirts and cover shoulders when visiting the mosque and walking through conservative areas of the old town.
• Greet with Respect — Use 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) when entering shops; vendors appreciate the effort to use Arabic greetings.
• Bargain in Markets — Haggling is expected and encouraged in the souk; start at 40-50% of the asking price and negotiate in a friendly, unhurried manner.
• Respect Prayer Times — The old town becomes quieter during the five daily prayers; avoid being disruptive and show deference during these spiritual moments.