The Western Wall, also called the Kotel and commonly known as the Wailing Wall, is a remnant of the ancient Temple complex and a longstanding Jewish place of prayer. It is not the Temple itself, and the available research does not establish uninterrupted prayer at this precise spot for more than 2,000 years. Visitors can visit the public prayer plaza; a few practical preparations can help make the visit more comfortable and respectful.
What is the Western Wall?
The Western Wall is a remnant associated with the ancient Temple in Jerusalem. The Western Wall Heritage Foundation describes its work as cultivating, developing, and preserving the Kotel and its tunnels; it says the Foundation was established in 1988. The Wall remains a public prayer site. The Foundation’s procedures distinguish the lower prayer plaza from the upper plaza and require advance approval for some organized events.
Why is it called the Wailing Wall?
“Wailing Wall” is a familiar name for the Western Wall, but the research reviewed for this article does not verify the live article’s claim that the name came from water droplets that made the Wall appear to cry. The Wall is also known as the Kotel. For clarity, “Western Wall” is the name used by the Foundation in its visitor information.
Visiting the Western Wall
The plaza is open to visitors. Its rules and access arrangements can change, so check the official visitor guide before travelling. The Foundation’s guide recommends a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes; it notes that the plaza is unshaded and that free cold-water filling stations are available in the area. Wheelchair access is listed only from Dung Gate.
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Siddurim (Jewish prayer books) and paper notes are available at the plaza, according to the Foundation. Visitors who prefer to use a personal prayer book may bring one, but it is not necessary to bring a note. The Foundation’s guide lists rules including no eating, smoking, or lighting candles. On Sabbath and Jewish holidays, it says not to use electronic devices or amplification systems, take pictures, or write. Check the current official guidance for details before your visit.
Ways to experience the site
| Option | What to consider |
|---|---|
| Prayer plaza | A public place for prayer and visiting. Follow current site rules and guidance. |
| Adjacent heritage and tunnel experiences | The Foundation’s remit includes the Wall and its tunnels. Check current official information for access and arrangements. |
| Self-guided visit or organized event | Some organized events require advance approval under the Foundation’s procedures. The sources reviewed do not establish a comprehensive current tour schedule. |
Why the Wall matters to visitors
The Wall is a significant place of Jewish prayer and heritage. Visitors arrive for different reasons; a 2024 Israel Democracy Institute explainer, drawing on the 2024 Religion and State Index, reports that more than half of Israel’s Jewish public visited at least once a year, while another 42% visited once every few years. The same explainer reports visiting purposes as touring (60%), prayer (45%), family celebrations (26%), and state and military ceremonies (12%); these figures need not add up to 100% because respondents may have selected more than one purpose.
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The Institute also reports an estimate of 12 million annual visitors from the Western Wall Heritage Foundation and approximately 20,000 people at peak special holiday events from Israel Police figures. These are distinct reported estimates, not ordinary daily attendance figures.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.FAQ
Can anyone visit the Wailing Wall?
The Western Wall plaza is open to visitors. Follow the current official visitor guidance and site rules; access arrangements can change.
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What should I wear or bring to the Western Wall?
The Foundation recommends sun protection, water, and comfortable walking shoes because the plaza has no shade. A personal siddur is optional: the official guide says prayer books are available at the plaza.
Can I put a note in the Wall?
The Foundation says paper notes for placing between the stones are available at the Kotel Plaza. Follow current site rules when visiting.
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Is the Western Wall the ancient Temple?
No. The Foundation describes the Wall as a remnant of the Temple. The surviving Wall and the ancient Temple are not the same structure.
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