In Judaism, the Temple, often referred to as the First Temple or Solomon’s Temple, was built around 957 BCE. It served as the spiritual centre of ancient Judaism and housed the Ark of the Covenant. The Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians in 587 BCE, marking a pivotal event in Jewish history. The Second Temple, erected later, was expanded and renovated over time, only to be destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.
Rising above the Temple Mount is the Dome of the Rock, an architectural masterpiece completed in 691 CE. This Islamic shrine is adorned with intricate mosaics, calligraphy, and an iconic golden dome.
The Dome of the Rock holds immense religious significance for Muslims as the place where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Night Journey.
The juxtaposition of these two structures on the Temple Mount encapsulates the rich tapestry of Jerusalem’s history, where sacred spaces and narratives intertwine.
Below was the video recorded during the Western Wall tour, while the presentation was delivered by a Jewish guide.