Jerusalem, located on a plateau amidst the Judaean Mountains in the Southern Levant, holds the distinction of being among the oldest cities globally. Esteemed by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam alike, it stands as a revered city for the three major Abrahamic faiths. While both Israel and Palestine assert Jerusalem as their capital, Israel currently hosts its central government institutions there, with Palestine envisioning it as their future seat of authority. However, neither claim enjoys widespread international recognition.

A History of Strife and Resilience

Throughout its extensive history, Jerusalem has faced destruction on two occasions, endured 23 sieges, been captured and recaptured 44 times, and suffered 52 attacks. Dating back to the 4th millennium BCE, the area known as the City of David displayed initial signs of settlement through nomadic shepherd encampments. In the Canaanite era around the 14th century BCE, Jerusalem appeared in ancient Egyptian records as Urusalim, likely referring to the “City of Shalem,” a Canaanite deity. Transitioning into the Israelite epoch, significant construction work commenced in the 10th century BCE, evolving Jerusalem into the religious and administrative hub of the Kingdom of Judah by the 9th century BCE.

In 1538, Suleiman the Magnificent oversaw the final reconstruction of the city walls, shaping the contours of what is now known as the Old City. Since the 19th century, this area has been partitioned into four quarters: Armenian, Christian, Jewish, and Muslim. Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981, the Old City was also listed as endangered on the World Heritage List. Since 1860, Jerusalem has experienced exponential growth beyond the confines of the Old City. As of 2022, its population reached approximately 971,800 residents, with Jews comprising almost 60% and Palestinians nearly 40%.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Jerusalem, revered by Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, stands as one of the most ancient continuously inhabited cities globally. Archaeological findings indicate its history spanning over 5,000 years. Among its 220 historical sites, the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, erected in the seventh century, showcase remarkable architectural prowess. Additionally, the city is host to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, renowned for enshrining the tomb of Christ.

Preservation of History and Tradition

Throughout its rich history, Jerusalem has been referred to by diverse names, including Urusalim, Jebus, Aelia Capitolina, the City, Beit al-Maqdis, and Al-Quds. Its myriad sites and extensive chronicles bear witness to vanished civilizations spanning the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and successive eras like the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Crusader, Umayyad, Abbasid, Fatimid, Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods.

The Enduring Legacy of the Old City

Jerusalem’s Old City, along with its encompassing walls, stands as one of the most impeccably preserved medieval Islamic urban centers globally. It is subdivided into four principal quarters: the Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Armenian Quarter, and the Jewish Quarter. Hosting a multitude of cultures over the centuries, the Old City reflects this diversity in its architectural styles, urban layout, sacred edifices, bustling streets, vibrant markets, and residential districts. Presently, Jerusalem sustains its living traditions, serving as a focal point of human history. Notably, in 1981, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan listed Jerusalem among the endangered World Heritage cities.

What Are The Most Important Sites in Jerusalem To Visit?

This question poses a significant challenge due to the profound significance of this city to three major religions. Notably, several sites within the city hold sacred status for multiple faiths. While there are numerous sites worthy of exploration, the following list comprises some of the most pivotal locations.

Al-Aqsa Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa)

Referred to as the Al-Haram ash-Sharif, or the noble sanctuary, this grand mosque encompasses the iconic Dome of the Rock within its compound. Ranked as the third holiest site in Islam, following the Kaaba in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, Saudi Arabia, this mosque holds immense religious significance. Featuring expansive colonnades and meticulously landscaped gardens, the compound spans an impressive one-fifth of the Old City, covering approximately 140,900 square meters. The mosque itself, crowned with a striking silver dome, was initially constructed as a place of worship adjacent to the Dome of the Rock. Originally commissioned between 709 and 715 AD by Caliph Walid Ben Abdul Malik, Al-Aqsa Mosque underwent numerous reconstructions, with little of the original structure remaining in its present form.

The Dome of the Rock (Qubbat As-Sakhra)

Located within the Muslim Quarter of the Old City, the Dome of the Rock signifies the site where the Prophet Mohammed ascended into heaven during the extraordinary journey known as the Israa and Miraj, traveling from Mecca to Jerusalem in a single night. Renowned as the oldest and most magnificent Muslim shrine globally, it was commissioned by Umayyad Caliph Abdul Malik Ben Marwan at the conclusion of the seventh century. Characterized by its rectangular octagonal structure, the mosque boasts a stunning dome adorned with gold leaf.

Church of the Holy Sepulcher

Regarded as the most sacred sanctuary for Christians worldwide, this church preserves numerous holy sites associated with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Nestled within the Christian Quarter of the Old City, its origins trace back to the fourth century when it was commissioned by Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. Built atop the remains of a pagan temple from the Roman era, the church underwent multiple renovations over the centuries. The present edifice, erected by the Crusaders in the twelfth century, encompasses significant sites including the last five Stations of the Cross. Within its walls lie the Chapel of Golgotha, marking the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, the Sepulcher where his body was laid to rest, and the Chapel of Mary Magdalene, where his resurrection was first revealed.

Nabi Samwil (Prophet Samuel)

Perched atop a mountain at an elevation of 890 meters above sea level and situated 4 kilometers north of Jerusalem, this village has long revolved around a central mosque that stands as a notable landmark. The mosque also encompasses the tomb of the revered prophet Samwil, its namesake. Constructed upon the remnants of a Byzantine castle, the mosque and its towering minaret afford sweeping vistas of Jerusalem’s hills.

Over time, extensive enhancements and refurbishments were undertaken during the Mameluke and Ottoman eras. Originally, during the Byzantine era, a monastery was established at Nabi Samwil, doubling as a shelter for Christian pilgrims en route to Jerusalem. Subsequently, under the reign of Justinian I in the mid-6th century AD, the monastery underwent substantial restoration and expansion.

The Kirdon Valley

Flowing between the Mount of Olives and the City of Jerusalem, the Kidron Valley was traversed by Jesus on numerous occasions, notably on the evening of Holy Thursday as he journeyed with his disciples to Gethsemane. Along its path, the valley is flanked by tombs belonging to adherents of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, with each contributing to the valley’s rich historical and religious significance.

The Mount of Olives

Situated to the east of Jerusalem, across the Kidron Valley, the Mount of Olives commands a breathtaking vista of the Old City and extends to a remarkable panorama encompassing the Dead Sea and the Moab mountains to the east.

Beyond its awe-inspiring sunsets, the Mount of Olives holds profound significance in Christian tradition, being the site of pivotal events in the life of Jesus. Here, believers hold that the Son of God ascended to heaven, a moment commemorated by the Chapel of Ascension. Additionally, it was here that Jesus prophesied the destruction of Jerusalem, imparted the Lord’s Prayer to his disciples (Pater Noster), and shed tears over the fate of the Holy City during his triumphant entry on Palm Sunday, an event remembered at the Church of Dominus Flevit. Adding to its allure, the mount features the striking Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Mary Magdalene, characterized by its exquisite onion-shaped domes.

The Garden of Gethsemane (Church of All Nations)

Located at the base of the Mount of Olives, the Church of All Nations traces its origins to the Byzantine era, with its construction dating back to 379 AD, marking the sacred ground where Jesus is believed to have prayed and endured agony. Renowned for its architectural splendor, the present-day church, erected between 1919 and 1924, stands as one of Jerusalem’s most exquisite landmarks. Aptly named the Church of All Nations, it owes its completion to the contributions of sixteen different countries.

Today, the Garden of Gethsemane retains its ancient charm, mirroring its appearance from over two millennia ago, with some of the world’s oldest olive trees adding to its landscape. This verdant oasis holds special significance in Christian tradition, as it was a favored retreat and prayer site for Jesus, notably serving as the setting for his final night.

Via Dolorosa (The Way of the Cross)

The path Jesus trod while bearing the cross from the Antonia Fortress, where his death sentence was pronounced, to Calvary, where he was crucified, is known as the Via Dolorosa, meaning the “Way of Suffering” in Latin. This journey is marked by fourteen stations of commemoration: two stationed at the Antonia Fortress, seven lining the streets of the Old City, and the final five housed within the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.

The Garden Tomb

Found adjacent to Damascus Gate and beyond the city walls of Jerusalem, the Garden Tomb offers a serene and tranquil environment, drawing visitors seeking solace and reflection through prayer and meditation. For many Christians, the rock-hewn tomb serves as a poignant setting to contemplate the events of the crucifixion and resurrection, providing a tangible connection to the historical backdrop of Jesus’ final moments. Its simplicity and natural beauty contribute to the immersive experience, allowing individuals to envision the significance of the place where Jesus was crucified and buried over two millennia ago.

The Tomb of the Virgin Mary

According to tradition, the Kidron Valley is believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary, who passed away in Jerusalem. In commemoration of this belief, the Crusaders erected the current church atop the remnants of a Byzantine basilica, intending to designate the location as both the tomb of the Virgin Mary and the site of her assumption.

Al-Azarieh (Bethany)

Situated on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, approximately three kilometers east of Jerusalem, Bethany holds historical significance as the residence of Lazarus and his sisters, Mary and Martha, who were beloved by Jesus. Referred to as Lazarus in Arabic since the fourth century, this village witnessed the profound miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead.

Summary

Jerusalem is an ancient city with deep religious roots, being important to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Though it’s claimed as a capital by both Israel and Palestine, its international status remains uncertain, and despite its turbulent past of wars and conquests, Jerusalem stands today as a symbol of resilience and cultural significance. The Old City, divided into quarters representing different faiths, is a living testament to its rich and diverse history.

With a history spanning thousands of years, Jerusalem has been known by many names and has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous civilizations, leaving behind a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. It is home to iconic religious landmarks like the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, with these sites attracting millions of pilgrims each year, reflecting the city’s importance as a spiritual center.

For visitors, Jerusalem offers a chance for a personal and unique spiritual connection by walking in the footsteps of prophets and saints. From the ancient streets of the Old City to the peaceful slopes of the Mount of Olives, there’s a sense of timelessness and reverence. Places like the Garden Tomb and the Via Dolorosa provide opportunities for reflection and connection with religious history. And despite its complexities, Jerusalem continues to draw people from all walks of life, united by a shared reverence for its sacred sites.