Jerusalem

About Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a city in the Middle East, located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is considered holy to the three major Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The city has been destroyed, rebuilt, captured, and recaptured numerous times throughout its history.

Historical Context

Jerusalem has been destroyed at least twice, besieged 23 times, captured and recaptured 44 times, and attacked 52 times throughout its history. The Old City was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. For centuries, Jerusalem has been a spiritual center for Judaism, with the Western Wall being the holiest site where Jews are permitted to pray. In Christianity, Jerusalem is revered as the place where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. For Muslims, Jerusalem is the third holiest city, after Mecca and Medina, with the Dome of the Rock marking the spot from which Muhammad is believed to have ascended to heaven.