Temple Mount, Jerusalem

14/08/2015

Temple Mount is a small hill located within the Old City of Jerusalem, surrounded by a high stone wall, which reaches up to 45 meters in some areas. It is one of the most significant religious sites in the world and hosts important Islamic places of worship: the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

History

The first religious buildings on the site appeared as early as the 10th century BC. It later became the location of the First and Second Temples of Jerusalem, central religious structures for the ancient Jewish people. The Second Temple was largely destroyed, leaving only the Western Wall, a fragment of the original masonry, which remains a sacred site for Jewish worship.

Access

Temple Mount is one of the most guarded and restricted areas in Jerusalem. Entry is limited to specific hours on certain days, with closures occurring irregularly. It is always closed on Fridays and Saturdays. Jews are not permitted to enter the Mount. Foreign visitors can access the site via the Mughrabi Bridge from the Western Wall area, while Muslim worshippers use a separate entrance from the Arab part of the city.

Significance

The Mount holds religious and cultural importance for both Jews and Muslims, and has been the focal point of historical conflicts.

Main Structures

Al-Aqsa Mosque – The third holiest mosque in Islam after Mecca and Medina, accommodating up to 5,000 worshippers. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven from this site during his night journey from Mecca.
Dome of the Rock – Recognizable by its golden dome, this Islamic shrine surrounds the “Foundation Stone,” believed to be the starting point of creation.