OLD CITY of TZFAT , Israel Today

The Tzfat that is today’s tourist hotspot is the Old City, originating from the Spanish Jews who settled the town after the Expulsion in 1492. From the old buildings to the ethnic atmosphere, Safed offers not just a jump back to the past but also a beautiful present. These days, the locals of Safed are often involved in Kabbala (a Jewish esoteric school of thought) and Kabbala becomes an integral part of society. The old city streets and houses are steeped in Kabbalistic influence – the doors and windows painted blue in mystical symbolism to confuse evil spirits. Along with the devout Kabbalists in the Old City, artists of varied approach have settled in Safed, creating the Artists’ Quarter. Autumn season, Workday, 1:30PM, 25°C Instagram: