Helen Mirren tours ancient Jerusalem

Award-winning British actress Helen Mirren is visiting the City of David archaeological site and the Old City in Jerusalem. She was accompanied by Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat.

“It’s just the most extraordinary, moving and powerful experience to be here. To look at the incredible work that’s been done to reveal these histories. I’ve always believed in history,” says Mirren.

“I think that we have to remember what happened in the past always as it informs our future and it certainly informs our present. I’m a great believer in that. To be in this situation where you see the past being revealed before your eyes is the most extraordinary, passionate and moving experience.”

Mirren is in Israel to award the annual Genesis Prize in a Thursday ceremony. This year’s prize is being awarded to preeminent violinist Itzhak Perlman.