Mahane Yehuda Market (the Shuk)

Shuk Mahane Yehuda is Jerusalem’s main open air market outside the Old City walls, and the largest fruit and vegetable market in the city. Founded in 1928 adjacent to the Mahane Yehuda neighborhood, the Shuk comprised 120 portable stalls at the time. During the British Mandate, the Shuk developed to include permanent shops. In recent years, the city renovated the market, upgrading its appearance and sanitary conditions. It borders with Jaffa Rd. to the north, Agrippas St. on the southern side, Eitz Chaim St. towards east, and Mahane Yehuda St. on the west. The quaint alleyways that connect between these streets are named after fruits: Agas (pear), Hashaked (almond), Haegoz (walnut), Haharuv (carob), etc. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the market's more than 250 vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables; baked goods; fish, meat and cheese; nuts, seeds, and spices; wines and liquors; clothing and shoes; housewares, textiles, and Judaica. In and around the market are falafel and shawarma stands, juice bars, cafes and restaurants. The color and bustle of the marketplace is accentuated by distinct ethnic flavors, and vendors who call out their prices to passersby. On Thursdays and Fridays, the marketplace is abuzz with shoppers stocking up for the Sabbath. The market is open from early morning till early evening (closed on Saturdays), and is wheelchair accessible.