Welcome to Jerusalem
Jerusalem, often referred to as "The Holy City," is one of the oldest cities in the world and holds immense religious significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. With its rich history spanning over 3,000 years, Jerusalem is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern life.
Fun Facts about Jerusalem
- Jerusalem has been destroyed twice, besieged 23 times, attacked 52 times, and captured and recaptured 44 times throughout its history.
- The Old City of Jerusalem is divided into four quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian.
- Jerusalem is home to over 2,000 archaeological sites.
- The city has over 26 wineries and 30 microbreweries.
- Jerusalem's Mount of Olives is home to over 150,000 Jewish graves, some dating back 3,000 years.
- The Jerusalem International YMCA is the only building in the world where the three monotheistic faiths pray under the same roof.
- Jerusalem hosts the annual Jerusalem Marathon, which takes runners through historical sites and modern neighborhoods.
- The Israel Museum in Jerusalem houses the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest biblical manuscripts in the world.
Historical Timeline of Jerusalem
1000 BCE
King David conquers Jerusalem and makes it the capital of the United Kingdom of Israel.
960 BCE
King Solomon builds the First Temple.
586 BCE
Babylonians destroy the First Temple and exile the Jews.
516 BCE
The Second Temple is completed.
70 CE
Romans destroy the Second Temple.
637 CE
Muslims conquer Jerusalem.
1099 CE
Crusaders capture Jerusalem.
1517 CE
Ottoman Turks conquer Jerusalem.
1917 CE
British forces capture Jerusalem.
1948 CE
State of Israel is established. Jerusalem is divided.
1967 CE
Six-Day War. Jerusalem is reunified under Israeli control.
Religious Significance
Jerusalem holds immense religious importance for three major monotheistic religions:
- Judaism: Jerusalem is considered the holiest city in Judaism. The Western Wall, a remnant of the ancient wall that surrounded the Jewish Temple's courtyard, is the holiest prayer site for Jews.
- Christianity: Jerusalem is central to many events in Jesus' life. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, is one of the holiest sites in Christianity.
- Islam: Jerusalem is the third-holiest city in Islam after Mecca and Medina. The Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque, located on the Temple Mount (known as Haram al-Sharif in Arabic), are among the holiest sites in Islam.
Modern Jerusalem
Today, Jerusalem is a vibrant, diverse city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern life. Some highlights of contemporary Jerusalem include:
- The Israel Museum, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls and a vast collection of Judaica and European art.
- Yad Vashem, Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust.
- The Machane Yehuda Market, a bustling marketplace by day that transforms into a lively nightlife scene after dark.
- The Jerusalem Light Rail, a modern transportation system that connects various parts of the city.
- The First Station, a renovated Ottoman-era train station now serving as a culture and entertainment venue.