New Gate, Historic gate in Old City, Israel.
The New Gate is the most recent entrance built into the northern section of Jerusalem's Old City walls, constructed from large stone blocks fitted with metal doors. The passage is relatively straightforward and provides direct access into the Christian Quarter without crossing through other parts of the walled city.
The passage was opened in 1887 on the orders of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II to give Christian institutions a more direct route to the growing modern city. This decision reflected the period's shift toward connecting the old walled quarters with rapidly expanding Jerusalem beyond the walls.
The gate serves as a daily passage for pilgrims and residents moving between the Christian Quarter's sacred sites and the modern city beyond. This practical role shapes the experience of passing through, where religious purpose and everyday urban life intersect.
The gate can be reached and crossed during daylight hours and typically remains open for pedestrian traffic between the quarters on either side. It is easily accessible on foot and serves as a natural crossing point when moving between the historic quarters and modern Jerusalem.
The gate is the only opening in the Old City walls that provides direct access to the Christian Quarter without passing through any other quarters. This makes it a singular point of entry that stands apart from all other gates in the walled city.
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