Is it possible for a city to capture your heart? Here at the I love JLM sculpture in Zion Square, that feeling is cast in metal and brightly painted for all to see. The I love JLM sculpture isn’t just a fun photo opportunity. It’s a symbol of Jerusalem’s vibrant energy, its embrace of the future, and its enduring appeal to people from all walks of life. The I love JLM sculpture arrived in Zion Square on Tu B’Av, the Jewish Valentine’s Day, in 2015. This bold, two-meter-high and six-meter-long declaration of love was designed by Jerusalem artist Yarel Yair. He envisioned the sculpture as a bridge between Jerusalem’s storied past and its dynamic future. Yair, growing up in the graffiti era, saw art as a form of expression, a quiet protest, and a way to connect with the community. He saw graffiti as “the Facebook of the 1970s.” This same spirit infuses the I love JLM sculpture. It stands amidst historical streets, where armies once marched, now welcoming the present and the future with open arms. The sculpture quickly became a popular spot, much like the “I Amsterdam” sculpture or Robert Indiana’s “Love” sculptures found around the world. Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat captured the sentiment perfectly, stating that “everyone loves Jerusalem, and Jerusalem loves them all.” The I love JLM sculpture embodies this sentiment, inviting residents, visitors, and tourists alike to experience the city’s unique charm and capture their own love for Jerusalem in a photograph. It’s a modern expression of affection for an ancient city, a testament to the enduring power of love in all its forms. So, take a moment to appreciate this vibrant symbol. Let it remind you of the special connection people have with Jerusalem. Let it inspire you to explore this fascinating city and discover your own reasons to love JLM.
Yeusefiya Cemetery
Were these once vibrant lives, now commemorated beneath our feet? We stand before the Yeusefiya Cemetery, a place where history