Jerusalem

Overview

Jerusalem is holy to three religions, and its World Heritage old city contains the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Dome of the Rock.

History

Jerusalem has been a central holy site for Judaism, Christianity and Islam for more than 3,000 years. King David made it the capital of Israel around 1000 BC and Solomon's Temple followed. It then passed through Babylonian, Persian, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Islamic and Crusader rule. The Romans destroyed the Second Temple in AD 70, leaving the Western Wall beside which Jews still pray today. The Crusaders took the city in 1099 and Saladin recovered it in 1187. Since the founding of modern Israel in 1948 the question of East and West Jerusalem has remained unresolved. The Old City became a World Heritage Site in 1981.

Highlights

• •The Western Wall, last remnant of the Temple Mount
• •The stunning golden Dome of the Rock
• •The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, site of the crucifixion and resurrection
• •Walking the Via Dolorosa as Christian pilgrims do
• •The four quarters of the Old City, each with its own character

Practical tips

• •Observe dress codes at religious sites
• •Check current security information before travelling

Practical information

Best time

March to May

Tickets

The Old City is free to walk; churches and museums roughly USD 10 to 25

Opening hours

Old City open all day; religious sites keep specific hours

Local food

Hummus, shakshuka and challah bread

Getting around

Light rail and buses cover the main districts and the old town is walkable; some transport stops on the Sabbath

Visa

A visa is required. Security screening on entry is thorough, so allow plenty of time and state your purpose of travel honestly.

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