A rare snowfall blanketed the city of Jerusalem on Thursday, leaving schools cancelled and causing the closure of the main highway.

According to local media, the snow reached about 20 centimeters (8 inches). Many visited the city from nearby to enjoy the snowy weather. “It happens one in a few years, it’s a great experience, we take a holiday and come with the kids to enjoy, it’s a bit cold but we are having lots of fun,” a visitor said.

The police closed Route 1 which connects Jerusalem with Tel Aviv, due to the weather.

Schools have also been shut for the whole of Thursday.

The snow came from the same storm that passed through Turkey and Greece, causing traffic disturbances and leaving landmarks covered in snow.