The Western Wall (The Kotel) is part of a supporting wall Herod built around the Temple in 20 BC. Being the only authentic relic from the Temple, the wall is the holiest place for the Jewish people. From the size and structure of the wall, one can infer the vision, planning and execution skills of Herod and his professionals over 2,000 years ago.
11,000 people worked for three years building this construct that was one of the biggest and most magnificent buildings. The current wall is only partly the original wall. It is 18 meters high and the 11 lower rows are original Herodian work. The rows above them were added after the Romans tore down the wall when the Temple was destroyed in 70 CE.
I didn't dare to get closer, to not disturb people and also because I cannot find a kippah (skullcap)of my size...