Ten Things to Do in Temple Mount, Jerusalem, Israel
The Temple Mount, known as Har HaBayit in Hebrew, is the holiest site in Judaism and one of the most important religious sites in the world. Located in the Old City of Jerusalem, the Temple Mount has been a pilgrimage site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims since ancient times. With its rich religious and cultural history, there is no shortage of things to do in Temple Mount, Jerusalem, Israel. From visiting the Dome of the Rock to exploring the Western Wall, here are ten things to do in Temple Mount, Jerusalem, Israel.
1. Visit the Dome of the Rock: The Dome of the Rock is an iconic shrine located on the Temple Mount. Built in 691 AD, the Dome of the Rock is one of the oldest surviving Islamic monuments and is a symbol of the city of Jerusalem. The shrine is also home to the Foundation Stone, the holiest site in Judaism, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the Temple Mount.
2. Explore the Western Wall: The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is the most sacred site in Judaism. The wall is a remnant of the ancient Temple of Jerusalem and has been a pilgrimage site for Jews for centuries. Visitors can explore the wall and take part in traditional rituals such as writing prayers on pieces of paper and placing them in the cracks of the wall.
3. Visit the Al-Aqsa Mosque: The Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the oldest and most important mosques in the world. Located on the Temple Mount, the mosque is the third holiest site in Islam and is a popular destination for Muslim pilgrims. Visitors can explore the grand mosque and take in its stunning architecture.
4. Take a Tour of the Temple Mount: The Temple Mount is a complex site with a long and rich history. Taking a tour of the Temple Mount is a great way to learn about the site’s history and explore its many attractions. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the Temple Mount.
5. Visit the Southern Wall Archaeological Park: The Southern Wall Archaeological Park is a fascinating site to explore. The park is home to numerous archaeological ruins from the Second Temple period, including the remains of the Western Wall and the Temple Mount. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the site.
6. Explore the Garden Tomb: The Garden Tomb is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians. Located just outside the Old City, the Garden Tomb is believed to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Visitors can explore the Garden Tomb and take part in traditional Christian rituals.
7. Visit the Mount of Olives: The Mount of Olives is one of the most important sites in Jerusalem. Located just east of the Old City, the Mount of Olives is a sacred site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Visitors can explore the mount and take in its stunning views of the city.
8. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the most important churches in Christianity. Located in the Old City, the church is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Visitors can explore the church and take part in traditional Christian rituals.
9. Visit the City of David: The City of David is an archaeological site located just south of the Temple Mount. The site is home to numerous ruins from the First and Second Temple period, including the remains of the Temple Mount and the Western Wall. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the site.
10. Explore the Jewish Quarter: The Jewish Quarter is one of the four quarters of the Old City of Jerusalem. Located just north of the Temple Mount, the Jewish Quarter is home to numerous synagogues, Jewish museums, and other attractions. Visitors can explore the quarter and take in its rich history and culture.