Mount Scopus, Mountain summit in northeast Jerusalem, Israel
Mount Scopus rises to 826 meters and offers sweeping views across Jerusalem and the surrounding desert landscape from its summit. The hilltop is shaped by the Hebrew University campus and the British War Cemetery, which define its physical character.
The mountain served as a key Roman Legion base during the siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE, which led to the destruction of the Second Temple. Following that period, the height changed hands several times through different historical eras as powers vied for control of the region.
The Hebrew University occupies much of the summit and shapes how locals and visitors experience the place, with its campus buildings and library drawing students and scholars daily. The site holds special meaning for many as a symbol of education and learning in the region.
Several bus lines run to the area, and the red light rail line also serves this district. The summit is fairly large, so it helps to decide in advance what you want to see, as the site includes multiple locations to explore.
The British War Cemetery on the summit holds roughly 2,500 graves of Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Palestine Campaign during World War I. These graves are carefully maintained and create a quiet space for reflection amid the urban landscape.
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