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Visit Dome of the Rock - Jerusalem

Visit Dome of the Rock - Jerusalem

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4.8
based on 4568 traveler reviews

Islam’s third holiest site after Mecca and Medina, the Dome of the Rock is built on top of the Temple Mount in the Old City. At the heart of the sanctuary is the Foundation Stone where, according to Islamic tradition, the prophet Muhammad ascended to Heaven.

The Dome, which was completed in 691-692 A.D., and has since come to define Jerusalem’s skyline, is an excellent example of middle Byzantine art. The man who initiated the construction, Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, hoped that the building, a shrine for pilgrims rather than a mosque for public worship, would “house the Muslims from cold and heat.” The structure was restored many times throughout the centuries, coated once with gold, then with tiles.

The most recent restoration of the site was carried out in 1998 by Jordan’s King Hussein II, who sold one of his houses in London to help fund the 80 kilograms of gold required to coat the dome. The sanctuary’s lavish interior is decorated with mosaic, marble and inscriptions. One of the reasons why the sanctuary has remained intact through the centuries, withstanding earthquakes that destroyed many nearby structures, is its octagonal shape.

Non-Muslim visitors are not allowed to enter the Dome of the Rock, but can get a close look from the Temple Mount courtyard during regular non-Muslim visiting hours.

As with other holy sites in Jerusalem, visitors to the Temple Mount are asked to dress modestly.

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google reviews

4.8
based on 4568 traveler reviews
  • Gus
    Gus
    August 9, 2023

    Holy land holy architect that the zionists hate and can’t stand seeing. A must go to if you are ever in Jerusalem just be respectful of the local traditions and culture.

  • Neil Greathouse
    Neil Greathouse
    February 21, 2019

    Very intriguing place but the aggression toward me from Muslim "security" was inexcusable. Taking photos and trying to enjoy this location was hindered by aggressive and belligerent men who demanded we delete all the file...

  • Asif N
    Asif N
    December 25, 2018

    Beautiful and stunning mosque. The whole area is full of history and imagery. The golden dome shines brightly, then you see the craftsmanship and intricate detail of the tiles. Inside of course is the rock, surrounding by...

  • Tanzim
    Tanzim
    March 12, 2020

    A beautiful compound, with the dome of the rock being the centre of the Al Aqsa compound. The roof is covered with a gold leaf and the inside is gorgeous. Lots of friendly palestinians made us feel welcome and the area fe...

  • Melvin Diaz
    Melvin Diaz
    March 4, 2019

    Beautiful temple! A must while visiting Jerusalem. No entrance fee. However, check the entrance time, winter 7:30 am to 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm; summer 7:30 am to 10:30 am and 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm. Closed on Fridays...

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