Jerusalem
A mountainous walled city with a 5,000-year history, Jerusalem is sacred to the three great monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam - which means it is sacred to more than a third of the world's population. For Jews, Jerusalem is the site of the Temple, now in ruins except for the Western Wall; for Christians, it is the site of Christ's death and resurrection; for Muslims, it is the site of the Prophet's night journey to heaven. Jerusalem is therefore a major site of pilgrimage for all three religions as well as, unfortunately, a place of religio-political tension over this important piece of land. The city is also popular destination for non-religious travelers, thanks to its unmatched historical and spiritual importance, its network of museums and concerts, and the archeological treasures that are continually discovered here. Follow a link below to learn more about the holy city of Jerusalem.
Travel Resources for Jerusalem
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See our Jerusalem Map for a closer view. |
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Featured Religious Attractions in Jerusalem
 This large mosque on the Temple Mount was originally built in 710 AD. It includes 11th-century mosaics, a 12th-century mihrab, and Crusader arches.  Both a Christian and Muslim holy site, this Crusader-era chapel marks the spot where Jesus ascended into heaven after his resurrection. His footprint is imprinted in the floor.  Built in the early 1900s by several different nations, this church stands over the traditional site where Jesus prayed on the night of his betrayal.  This Franciscan church marks the spot where Jesus wept over the future destruction of Jerusalem. There is a beautiful view of Temple Mount from here.  This is one of the oldest churches in Jerusalem as well as the site of the founding of the Knights of the Hospital of St. John, a.k.a. the Hospitallers.  Known for its golden onion domes that can be seen from afar, this Russian Orthodox Church was built in 1888 by Tzar Alexander III.  This historic church shelters the holiest site in all Christendom: the tomb where Christ was buried and rose from the dead. It is shared by several denominations.  Built by Kaiser Wilhelm in 1898, this Romanesque-style Lutheran church on the Muristan has a tall tower with excellent views.  Built over the traditional home of John the Baptist's parents, this Franciscan church commemorates the meeting of Mary and Elizabeth when they were both pregnant.  Built in the 7th century, this beautiful blue-and-gold shrine houses the rock from which the Prophet took his Night Journey into heaven. The rock is also associated with Abraham's near-sacrifice of Isaac.  Discovered in 1867, this ancient tomb in a peaceful garden is honored by many Protestants as the site of Jesus' burial instead of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City.  Opened in 1965, this large museum includes art exhibits, a Judaica Wing, an Archaeological Wing, and the wonderful Shrine of the Book containing the Dead Sea Scrolls.  This vaulted room built by Crusaders in the 12th century commemorates the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples in an "upper room."  A holy site to Jews, Muslims, and Christians, the Temple Mount is the historic site of the Jewish Temple and the current site of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.  A village on the east slope of the Mount of Olives, Bethany was the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha and was frequented by Jesus during his ministry. The Tomb of Lazarus is the main attraction.  A Crusader church and atmospheric Byzantine crypt shelters this ancient tomb said to be that of the Virgin Mary.  This route through the Old City is revered by Christian pilgrims as the route taken by Jesus as he was led to his crucifixion. It is the setting of regular processions.  This is all that remains of the Temple that was once the center of Jewish worship. The Western Wall Plaza is a vast, open-air synagogue that is the preferred place to pray for Jews worldwide. |
