by 
Neighborhoods in Jerusalem – Old Katamon
Discovering Old Katamon: A Hidden Gem in Jerusalem’s History
Jerusalem is a city renowned for its rich history, steeped in religious significance and ancient traditions. While landmarks like the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre dominate the city’s skyline, there are many lesser-known corners of Jerusalem where the past is still very much alive. One such place is Old Katamon, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse history, from its pre-state era to its modern-day evolution.
Located in the southwestern part of Jerusalem, Old Katamon (officially known as Gonen) is an upscale and historical neighborhood that dates back to the early 20th century. Katamon is bounded by the neighborhoods of Talbiya in the northeast and the German Colony and Greek Colony to the southeast. The neighborhood was established in the early 1900s, shortly before World War I, as a wealthy, predominantly Palestinian Christian neighborhood. Its tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and proximity to central parts of Jerusalem made it a desirable place to live.
Katamon was originally a quiet, suburban area that reflected the cosmopolitan nature of Jerusalem at the time, where Jews, Arabs, and Christians coexisted in harmony. The neighborhood was home to prominent Palestinian families, many of whom worked in education, government, and commerce. For several decades, Katamon served as a hub of cultural and social activity. However, following the establishment of the State of Israel, the Arab residents of Old Katamon were displaced, as many of them fled or were forced to leave due to the war. The neighborhood, along with many other parts of Jerusalem, saw dramatic changes in its demographics.
During the war, Katamon became a focal point of conflict, and much of the area was left abandoned by its Arab inhabitants. After the ceasefire and the division of the city, the Israeli government took control of Katamon, and the houses were repurposed for Jewish immigrants arriving from Europe and other parts of the Middle East. Many of the beautiful Arab-style homes, which had once belonged to Jerusalem’s elite, were adapted for the newcomers, while some were abandoned, standing as silent witnesses to the city’s complex history.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Old Katamon is its architecture, which reflects a blend of local and European influences. The homes are characterized by their wide terraces, arches, and high ceilings—features that were typical of the early 20th-century Arab architecture in Jerusalem. The neighborhood’s streets are lined with trees, olive groves, and lush gardens, giving it a peaceful, suburban feel even today.
In recent years, Old Katamon has undergone significant changes, with many of its older homes being restored and revitalized. This gentrification has brought new life to the neighborhood, which is now a vibrant mix of long-time residents, young professionals, and families. The neighborhood has become a sought-after location for those looking for a quieter, more residential part of Jerusalem, yet still close to the city center.
The neighborhood boasts a number of local cafes, galleries, and boutiques that have sprung up in recent years, giving it a lively, bohemian feel. This mix of old and new has made Old Katamon an increasingly popular destination for those seeking a more authentic experience of Jerusalem, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Old Katamon is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a living testament to the layers of Jerusalem’s history. From its early days and through it’s transformation, Old Katamon tells the story of a city that has constantly reinvented itself while holding on to its past. Today, it stands as a peaceful, quiet corner of Jerusalem, offering visitors and residents alike the opportunity to reflect on the city’s complex and often painful history while also enjoying its contemporary vitality.
Here are a few key landmarks that are worth visiting:
Saint Simeon Monastery
A major landmark in Katamon is the Saint Simeon monastery, known to Jerusalemites as San Simon, located just off Hizkiyahu HaMelech st. The monastery is now surrounded by a large park known as San Simon. The name Katamon actually comes from the Greek term “Kata Monhs” which translates to “By the monastery.”
Recha Freier Square
In the center of the neighborhood lies the Recha Freier square. Around the square are five historical buildings that were used for the embassies and foreign consulates of Lebanon (during the British era only), Poland, Venezuela, El Salvador, Belgium and Greece. The Greek consulate remains there since the 1950s as the Greek consulate in Jerusalem.
St. George’s Cathedral
One of the most prominent landmarks in Old Katamon, St. George’s Cathedral is an Anglican church that was built in the early 20th century. Its neo-Gothic architectural style and the stunning stained-glass windows are notable features. The cathedral has long been a center for the Christian community in Jerusalem, hosting religious services and events. The cathedral is an important part of Jerusalem’s Christian heritage and offers visitors a serene and beautiful space for reflection. It also houses a guesthouse for pilgrims visiting the city.
The Museum for Islamic Art
Located on the corner of HaPalmach Street in Katamon, near the Jerusalem Theatre, it houses Islamic pottery, textiles, jewelry, ceremonial objects and other Islamic cultural artifacts and a rare clocks collection. The museum also regularly showcases contemporary Islamic art. For current exhibitions visit the museum’s website.
The Hekhal Shlomo Synagogue
Located on the border between Old Katamon and nearby Talbiyeh, this synagogue is one of the modern landmarks of the area. It was built in the mid-20th century and serves as a focal point for the religious Jewish community in the region. The synagogue stands as an important symbol of the post-1948 changes in the neighborhood, reflecting the integration of Jewish immigrants into the city. It is a significant site of worship and community in the heart of Jerusalem.
The Neighborhood’s Historic Houses
The architecture of Old Katamon itself is a living landmark. The original homes built by the affluent Arab families in the early 20th century are still standing in many parts of the neighborhood. These houses, with their wide verandas, high ceilings, and intricate stonework, offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle that once defined the area. Many of these homes have been restored or repurposed, but they continue to represent the multicultural and cosmopolitan nature of Jerusalem during the British Mandate period.
Katamon is also home to the Israel Goldstein Youth Village, which has a number of school programs (boarding and day schools), especially for Russian and French Olim. Also in the Youth Village is Ramah Israel, which hosts teens from North America through the Ramah Seminar program for 6 weeks in the summer and Tichon Ramah Yerushalayim (Ramah Jerusalem High School) for 4.5 months in the Spring.
Other schools and educational centers in Katamon include: Beit Yaakov HaAri – A religious elementary school for girls on HaPalmach st., Chorev – A religious elementary school for boys and girls on Kovshei Katamon st., Hartman Girls School – A religious high school for girls on Rachel Imenu, Henrietta Szold – an elementary school on HaGdud HaIvri st., Nissan Nativ Acting Studio – offering courses for both adults and teenagers, and Shalom Hartman Institute – a religious junior high school for boys on Klein st.
These landmarks in Old Katamon highlight the neighborhood’s transformation over time. From its early 20th-century Arab residential roots to its post-1948 evolution, Old Katamon stands as a reminder of Jerusalem’s complex and multifaceted history. Exploring these sites offers a deeper understanding of the layers of culture and history that have shaped the city.
Join The Discussion