The House of Simon the Tanner

If you're looking for a unique stop on your Israel tour, consider one of the most famous rooftops in Jaffa-the rooftop of the House of Simon the Tanner (Acts 10:9-47). Installed with a lighthouse in 1875, this beacon guides ships and fishing vessels through Jaffa's rocky coastline. The lighthouse is operated by members of the Armenian Christian Zakarian family that still reside in the house. The illumination provided as a result of the restoration of this house is a welcomed addition after so many years of darkness. The Zakarian family is notorious for having welcomed Christian pilgrims desiring to stand where Peter stood when he had the vision of the unclean animals, after which he converted Cornelius (the Roman centurion in Caesarea). Check with the Old Jaffa Tourism Association before leaving for your pilgrimage to Israel as the house and roof were recently closed for renovation.