Old City Of Jerusalem And Its Walls

Guide to the Old City of Jerusalem and Its Walls

Overview

Welcome to the heart of the Middle East - the ancient city of Jerusalem! This spiritual, historical, and cultural center has been a focal point for three major religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) for thousands of years. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the Old City of Jerusalem and its remarkable walls, providing you with valuable insights to make your visit more enjoyable and meaningful.

Location and History

The Old City of Jerusalem is surrounded by ancient stone walls dating back nearly 500 years, built during the Ottoman Empire period. The city is located in modern-day Israel, approximately 40 miles (65 km) west of the Dead Sea and 30 miles (48 km) east of the Mediterranean Sea.

The history of Jerusalem can be traced back over 4,000 years to the time of King David and King Solomon, making it one of the oldest cities in the world. Throughout its rich history, Jerusalem has been conquered, rebuilt, and destroyed multiple times, yet it continues to thrive as a vibrant city today.

The Walls of Jerusalem

The Old City walls encompass an area of approximately 0.9 square miles (2.3 km²), with eight main gates connecting the various quarters:

  1. Zion Gate - Located on the southern side, it leads to Mount Zion and the Dormition Abbey.
  2. Mount Royal (Lion’s) Gate - On the northeastern side, it provides access to the Armenian Quarter.
  3. Herod’s Gate - Close to Lion’s Gate, it connects the Christian and Muslim Quarters.
  4. Damascus Gate - The main entrance on the northern side, linking the Muslim and Christian Quarters with the bustling market street, the Suq.
  5. New Gate - On the northeastern side, leading to the Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall.
  6. Dung Gate - Close to the Western Wall, it was used by priests coming from the temple to clean themselves before entering.
  7. Chain (Golden) Gate - Located on the eastern side and sealed shut since the Byzantine period, it is associated with the prophecy of Messiah’s arrival.
  8. Jaffa Gate - On the western side, it serves as the main entrance to the city today, leading to the modern shopping district and tourist attractions.

The Four Quarters

Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is located on the southeastern side of the Old City. Its primary attraction is the Western Wall (Wailing Wall), an essential site for Jewish prayer and pilgrimage. Additionally, explore the ancient synagogues, the Hurva Synagogue, and the Cardo, a Roman-Byzantine street.

Christian Quarter

The Christian Quarter lies on the western side, centered around the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the burial site of Jesus Christ. Other significant sites include the Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrows), commemorating the route Jesus walked before his crucifixion, and the Church of St. Anne and Pool of Bethesda.

Muslim Quarter

The Muslim Quarter encompasses the northern part of the Old City, with the Al-Aqsa Mosque (the third holiest site in Islam) and the Dome of the Rock (an ancient Islamic shrine) as its main attractions. Also visit the Muristan complex, Madrasa of Omar, and the Khan al-Ahmar souk for a glimpse into daily life within this quarter.

Armenian Quarter

On the northeastern side lies the compact Armenian Quarter. The most notable landmarks here are the St. James Cathedral (the only surviving Crusader church in Jerusalem) and the Muristan complex, which houses a seminary, museum, and a beautiful courtyard.

Tips for Tourists

  1. Dress appropriately: Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should wear long sleeves and skirts below the knee, while men should avoid shorts.

  2. Stay hydrated: Jerusalem’s climate can be quite hot during summer months, so carry water with you and take breaks in shade when needed.

  3. Plan your visit: To make the most of your time, research the sites you want to visit beforehand and plan a route that connects them efficiently. Be aware of opening hours and any restrictions due to religious observances or holidays.

  4. Use official guides: Hiring an officially licensed guide can provide valuable insights into the history and culture of Jerusalem, ensuring a more enriching experience for you.

  5. Respect cultural sensitivities: Jerusalem is a city with deep-rooted religious and cultural significance. Be respectful when visiting sacred sites and avoid any actions that may be perceived as disrespectful or offensive.

  6. Practice mindfulness: The Old City of Jerusalem can become very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Practice patience and mindfulness when navigating through the narrow alleyways and bustling markets.

Exploring the Old City of Jerusalem and its remarkable walls offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in rich history, vibrant culture, and spirituality. With this guide as your companion, you will be well-prepared for an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. Enjoy your visit!