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Towards ensuring the safety of mispallalim and the integrity of the Kosel, as is the case before Pesach and Rosh Hashanah, work is ongoing at the Kosel ahead of Yomtov.

Workmen are checking the integrity of the stones, a necessary step to avoid an unwanted situation chas v’sholom as from time to time, some of them have to be reinforced. In addition, cleaning is done to remove buildup and matter left behind by birds.

The countless number of kvitlach are also removed twice annually in preparation for the many visitors who arrive at the Kosel in Tishrei and Nissan.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)