Jerusalem is one of the ancient city on this earth and a capital of Palestine. It is famous because of its rich history and historical places. Jersualem is holy places not only for jews but also for Christians and Muslims. The significance of Jersualem for all three religion is the presence of Bait-ul-Maqdas (Al-Aqsa Mosque). This is the actual reason of Jerusalem being as holy place. Also an entire generation of Prophets from Propeht Dawood (A.S) to Prophet Isa (A.S) have lived their lives in this city.
Apart from religious history, Jerusalem is also famous for energetic markets, secret places, amazing community and a modern life. As a traveler and tourist, I had a great experience visiting this city. So I thought to share my experience and knowledge with my readers. In this blog I will guide you with 5 places you should visit in your tour of Jerusalem.
Al-Aqsa Mosque
The first place you should visit is Al-Aqsa Mosque or Bait-ul-Maqdas. As I have stated earlier that Bait-ul-Maqdas has the great significance as holy place for Muslims, Jews and Christians. Al-Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest place for Muslims and first holy place for Jews. When I visited there I have cleared so many misconceptions I had regarding Al-Aqsa Mosque.
First of all keep in mind that Al-Aqsa Mosque is not only the mosque with golden dome or the mosque with black dome. Rather it is an entire compound with other mosque and places as well.
The Buraq Wall
The Buraq wall is also known as Wailing or Western Wall. This wall is holy for Jews but Muslims believed that this was the wall where the Prophet (PBUH) tied his riding animal named as Buraq. This was the animal that rode Prophet (PBUH) from Makkah to Jerusalem in one night. This is the place where the Al-Buraq Mosque has been constructed. This wall is in the South-West corner.
The Moroccan Gate
This gate is known as Moroccan Gate. It is believed that the Prophet (PBUH) entered during the night of Isra. Then, when the second Caliph of Muslims, Umar (RA) he also entered through the same gate following the footsteps of Prophet. Today this place is only entering point of non-Muslims only. Muslims can access the mosque through Tribes Gate on the north-east side, The Gate of Remission on the northern side and The Chain Gate located on western side.
Al-Qibly Mosque
This is the mosque where it is believed that Prophet (PBUH) led the prayer of all Prophets. Also this was the first qiblah of Muslims. Many people get confused and think the Golden Dome is the Al-Aqsa Mosuqe where Prophet led the prayer and was the first qiblah. This mosque was built by Caliph Omer (RA) in 1034CE after conquering the Jerusalem.
Bab-ur-Rahmah Cementry
This is the Muslims graveyard outside the eastern wall. This also have two sahabah grave, Ubadah bin Samit and Shaddad bin Aus.
The Golden Gate
This is the gate where christians believe that the Prophet Isa (A.S) will enter when he will come to this world for the second time. But this gate has been sealed in 7th century.
Throne of Prophet Sulaiman (A.S)
This is the place where it is believed that the Prophet Sulaiman (A.S) passed. Now this building is girls school.
Dome of the Rock
This is the misconception I was talking about. Most people believe the this is the Al-Aqsa Mosuqe. No this is only the dome of the Rock which is also knwon as Qubbatus Saqqara. This dome was constructed by Caliph Abd-al-Malik from 688 top 691 CE. This is the place where it is believed that the angel Jibraeel took Prophet (PBUH) to heaven on the night of Miraj.
Dome of the Chain
This dome has not any kind of significance. This only signals the exact center of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Machane Yehuda Market
After Al-Aqsa Mosque I visited Machane Yehuda Market also known as The Shuk. This is the largest market of Jerusalem. There are several vendors selling fruits and vegetable. This market is famous because this the traditional market in Jerusalem. My experience of this place is filled with amazing sounds, visuals and smells. Yehuda Market market is surronded by Jaffa Road to the north and Agrippas Street to the south.
This market has fresh products of food and a variety of several stores such as clothing store, jewellery stores and ceremanic stores. The market has several restaurants, fresh baked goods, street foods, juices and sweets. In the night the market changes completely. The shutters of stores are painted with the art and the amazing music starts to play in the bar. The market is very busy on the days of Thursday and Friday. It is recommended to visit and shop in the early morning or late afternoon. Also consider a transport as the place is busy with heavy traffic and not easy to find parking.
The Armenia Quarters
The Armenia Quarters have some of the oldest churches in the city of Jerusalem located in the southwestern corners. This is an oldest place because in the 4th century the Armenians lived here. This quarter has been developed around the biblical Mount Zion and formalized as a distinct quarter over centuries.
Cathderal of St.James was built in this quarter around 12th century. This is one of the most spiritual area of the qaurtern and the Armenians seat. But this is closed for casual visitors. The compound here include the churches of St.James, St.Toros and the church of Archangles.
Mount Zion
Just outside the city of Jerusalem at the highest point lies Mount Zion. Several tourist visit this place to witness this historical site. This site is mentioned in the Old Testament as well several time. Due to this, it has religious aspect as well especially for Christians. Also the Grave of Prophet Dawood (A.S) and Maryam (Mother of Jesus) present in this area. The Room of the Last Supper is the place where it is believed that Propher Isa (A.S) has his final meal with his companion. This land is a sad Christian landmark.
Little Western Wall
Moving towards the Muslim Quarter, I found a little western wall also know as Hotel Hakatan. This place is a hidden continuation of crowded Hotel. This western wall is especially Holy for Jews because of the ancient Jewish Temple. After visiting there I found a small exposed portion of ancient stones. The stones here dated directly to the second Temple era. There is no separation between men and women, it is common for all to visit.