Scene of Jerusalem in the 1890s. (Youtube)

In honor of Jerusalem Day, the World Jewish Congress produced a film showing the beauty of Jerusalem over a century ago.

Israelis are now celebrating Yom Yerushalayim, or Jerusalem Day, marking the reunification of the eternal Jewish capital during the 1967 Six Day War.

In 1948, during Israel’s War of Independence, the Old City of Jerusalem fell under Jordanian occupation. Until its liberation 19 years later, Jewish were prohibited from visiting the holy sites, which were neglected, and synagogues were destroyed.

Since Israel regained control, the city has flourished and the holy sites are accessible to people of all faiths.

This beautiful film shows scenes of Jerusalem in the 1890s. What becomes clear is that there has always been a significant Jewish population in their holiest city whenever historically possible. Furthermore, the progress over the past 50 years is unmistakable to those who have visited in recent years and witnessed the dynamic, thriving city, which is both ancient and modern.