Jerusalem’s Old City enters hi-tech world with wi-fi

NIS 2 million wireless network in all four quarters to aid millions of tourists, merchants and residents

By DANIEL K. EISENBUD
Updated: JANUARY 23, 2017 23:58
AN AERIAL view of the Old City of Jerusalem. (photo credit: REUTERS)
AN AERIAL view of the Old City of Jerusalem.
(photo credit: REUTERS)
The Old City will soon join the ranks of the new, when free Wi-Fi is introduced in all four quarters.
The wireless network, which is presently in its pilot stage, was initiated by the Jerusalem Development Authority, the Jerusalem Municipality and the Heritage Ministry and cost NIS 2 million.
“Access to the Old City is a central element in our operations,” the JDA said in a joint statement on Monday, noting that heritage sites worldwide are increasingly integrating technology to create a more user-friendly experience.
“Accessibility includes not only physical expansion and the paving of access roads, but also making the Old City’s quarters Internet-ready. It is for the benefit of tourists, but no less important, for the benefit of residents and merchants.”
Wi-Fi has already been piloted near Jaffa Gate and parts of the Christian Quarter, and will soon be available throughout the entire Old City.
Benefits of the technological upgrade include an improved tour experience, as more visitors will be able to access various phone apps that facilitate navigation of the ancient alleyways.
In the past few years, the capital has also introduced free Internet service in the German Colony neighborhood, the Ben-Yehuda pedestrian mall and the area near city hall.