Table of Contents
Greeting
Are you ready to explore one of the most contested yet beautiful cities on earth? Welcome to Beautiful Places in Jerusalem, where history runs deep and the role the city plays in the traditions of all three major monotheistic faiths has led to it being continually fought over throughout the centuries. But fear not, for amidst the religious and political tensions lies a wealth of incredible sites to visit and experience.
Haram Al-Sharif is one of the most Beautiful Places in Jerusalem
First on our list is the Haram Al-Sharif, a site revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. This is the site where Abraham, father of all three monotheistic faiths, is said to have offered his son up as a sacrifice to God, where Solomon built the first temple for the Ark of the Covenant, and where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have ascended to heaven during his early years of preaching Islam.
Western Wall and Jewish Quarter
Next up is the Western Wall and Jewish Quarter, where the Western Wall is the surviving retaining wall of Jerusalem’s first temple, commonly called the Wailing Wall due to the people’s laments for the loss of the temple in AD70. It is another one of the beautiful places in Jerusalem. It is now the holiest site in Judaism and has been a place of pilgrimage for the Jewish people since the Ottoman era.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
For Christian pilgrims, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is Jerusalem’s holiest site and is said to have been built on the site where Jesus was crucified. The site was picked by Saint Helena, mother to Constantine the Great during her tour of the Holy Land. She was the one to announce to the Byzantine world that this spot was the Calvary or Golgotha of the gospels.
Armenian Quarter
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Armenian Quarter, yet another one of the most beautiful places in Jerusalem. Running south from the citadel, Armenian Patriarchate Road is the main street of the old city’s tiny Armenian Quarter. Here you will find St James Cathedral and St Mark’s Chapel, which receive much fewer visitors than others in the old city.
The Via Dolorosa, also known as the Way of Sorrow
The Via Dolorosa, also known as the Way of Sorrow, is another must-see for many Christian visitors to Jerusalem. This walk follows the route of Jesus Christ after his condemnation as he bears his cross toward execution at Calvary. The walk is easily followed independently, but if you’re here on a Friday, you can join the procession led by the Italian Franciscan monks.
Citadel also known as the Tower of David
Don’t forget to visit the Citadel also known as the Tower of David, it actually has no connection with David having been erected by King Herod to protect the palace he built in approximately 24 BC. His original citadel had three towers named after his brother Faisal, his wife Miriam, and his friend Hippacus.
The Christian Quarter
The Christian Quarter of the Old City runs north of the Jaffa Gate and is centered around the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Within this tangle of alleyways are some of the Old City’s most popular tourist souvenir souks, and a whole host of other ancient churches and monasteries to discover.
Muslim Quarter
Finally, no trip to Jerusalem would be complete without visiting the Muslim Quarter, the largest and most populous of the four quarters of the Old City of Jerusalem. Here you will find the Dome of the Rock, one of the most iconic and visited landmarks in the city. You will also find the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam and the most important place of prayer for Palestinians.
So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime as you discover the rich history and most beautiful places in Jerusalem. From its ancient sites to its bustling souks, this city is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.