Temple Mount, Sacred mountain in Jerusalem
The Temple Mount is an elevated platform of ancient limestone in the southeast corner of Jerusalem's walled old city. The site contains wide open courtyards, fountains, archways, and several major buildings topped with golden domes.
A king ordered the first temple built on this hill around 950 BC, and it stood for roughly 360 years before enemies destroyed it. Afterward a second temple rose, expanded by another king, until Roman forces burned it down in AD 70.
The site takes its name from two great Jewish temples that once stood on this summit. Today Muslims worship at the mosques on the plaza, while Jews leave written prayers in cracks of the Western Wall below.
Visitors should cover shoulders and knees and respect prayer times when worshippers are present. Access is through several gates, and non-Muslims are not permitted to pray on the grounds.
The golden dome of the Dome of the Rock shelters a bare stone from which Muslims believe the prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. Local traditions also hold that the prophet Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son at this very location.
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