Thursday, January 17, 2013

Day Three- Dome of the Rock/ Temple Mount

 
Drive from our rental.  Breathtaking mist covered mountains.
 
 
 
 
We parked at an underground parking lot for the day- then set out on foot through the Old City.
We were looking for the entrance to The Dome of The Rock.  The only entrance open for Non- Muslims is Bab al- Maghariba, on the southern end of the Western Wall Piazza.  I never mind the walk through the old market Souq.  It is my favorite place in this city.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Walking up to the entrance.
 
 
 
We decided to hire a guide.  Too many things to look at that we were not familiar with.  Insightful commentary.  Glad we hired him.
 
 
This is probably the most recognized symbol of Jerusalem.  It is the worlds most photographed building on Earth.
Dome of the Rock.  In Arabic- Qubbet al-Sakhra.
 
This gold topped dome covers the large slab of stone that Abraham was preparing to sacrifice his son on.  To Muslims this son was Ishmael.  It is also the place where the prophet Mohammad launched himself towards heaven to take his place beside Allah.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The mosque is covered with scrolled verses of the Quran, inside and out.  It is also decorated with beautiful tiled mosaics.  It was not open to Non- Muslims at this time.
 
 
 
 
 
 

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