The Western Wall—also known as the Kotel—is the holiest site in Jerusalem due to its status as the last remnant of the Second Temple built by Herod in 19 BC. Today it forms one side of Temple Mount, and this section of the wall rises 187 feet (57 meters) up. The Western Wall is divided into two areas—there’s a small southern section for women and a much larger northern area for men. If you don’t feel comfortable joining in on the action at the wall, it’s backed by a large, sloping plaza where you can stand back and just take in the scene.
The site is commonly visited on half- and full-day Jerusalem sightseeing tours departing from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Many tours also visit Bethlehem, the Dome of the Rock, or the Dead Sea.