Frommer's Review
One of the most outstanding landmarks in the city, the YMCA was built in the early 1930s with funds donated by a Montclair, New Jersey, philanthropist named James Jarvie. Designed by the architectural firm that did New York City's Empire State Building, the building is an interesting mixture of Art Deco, Byzantine, and Islamic styles. This is probably the most amazing YMCA in the world. On the first floor, you'll find a replica of the London room in which the YMCA was founded in 1844. The 46m (152-ft.) tower (Mon-Sat 9am-2pm) offers one of the most dramatic panoramas of the city. Notice the six-winged bas-relief seraph that ornaments the center of the tower's facade; the tower also houses the only carillon in the Middle East. Concerts played on the tower bells, especially at midnight on New Year's Eve, are among the city's little-known pleasures. Built by Christian, Jewish, and Muslim workers and artisans, the YMCA is a meeting place for all the city's communities. The complex includes a swimming pool, tennis courts, athletic fields, lecture and concert halls, a gymnasium, restaurant, and one of the best hotels in Jerusalem.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
