Prince William hailed for 'remarkable gesture' during historic trip to holy sites in Jerusalem

Prince William became the first member of the Royal family to tour the holiest sites in Jerusalem this week, where the Duke of Cambridge took the opportunity to turn his attention away from politics and focus on religion.

The Telegraph reports that William even placed a hand written prayer in the cracks of the Western Wall while wearing a kippah. He would later take his shoes off during a visit to a mosque, demonstrating respect to each site he visited.

He began his tour on the Mount of Olives and enjoyed the view of Jerusalem’s Old City, and then found himself at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, where he took salt and bread before entering. It was also here where he visited his great grandmother Princess Alice’s crypt where he laid flowers from the garden.

"It's absolutely fascinating to hear about the family history," Prince William reportedly said after being shown photos of from Princess Alice's life.

See photos from Prince William's visit to Jerusalem:

He also visited the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the place where Jesus is said to have been crucified.

"Today we experienced a moment of history which will live long in the memory of Jews around the world," British Chief Rabbi said of the Prince's visit. "The Western Wall stands at the epicenter of our faith. To see the future Monarch come to pay his respects was a remarkable gesture of friendship and a sign of the Duke's regard for the sanctity of Jerusalem."

"For us brothers and the sisterhood here, it is a great honor to have such a guest as Prince William here," Father Roman, the head of the Russian Ecclesiastical Mission in Jerusalem added.

The Duke of Cambridge reportedly left his visit with a variety of gifts for his children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, "so they have a blessing from Jerusalem."