Temple Mount

The Dome of the Rock is the foremost structure, and you will recognize its golden dome. It has stood since 637 when after the Muslim conquest of Jerusalem. It was constructed on the site of the Second Jewish Temple, which was destroyed during the Roman Siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE. It enshrines the rock from which Muḥammad is said to have ascended to heaven.

The structure is basically octagonal. It comprises a wooden dome, approximately 20 m in diameter, which is mounted on an elevated drum consisting of a circle of 16 piers and columns. Surrounding this circle is an octagonal arcade of 24 piers and columns. The outer facade is made of porcelain and mirrors the octagonal design.

The site's significance stems from religious traditions regarding the rock, known as the Foundation Stone, at its heart, which bears great significance for Jews, Christians and Muslims. It is considered “the most contested piece of real estate on earth," and is carefully guarded.

Biblical scholars have identified the temple mound with with Mount Moriah where the binding of Isaac took place. Consider the significance; the willingness of Father Abraham to offer his son, Isaac on the mount forshadowed the sacrifice God gave of his son, Jesus Christ on the same mount, many years later. (Most Muslims believe it was Ishmael, not Isaac, who was to be sacrificed.)

This photo shows the Foundation Stone, which would have been the highest top of temple mount. There is a small hole on the southeastern corner that enters a cavern beneath the rock, known as the Well of Souls.

According to the Hebrew Bible, Mount Moriah was originally a threshing-floor owned by Araunah, a Jebusite. The prophet Gad suggested the area to King David as a fitting place for the erection of an altar to YHWH (Jehovah). David then bought the property from Araunah, for fifty pieces of silver, and erected the altar and sanctuary. The building was to replace the Tabernacle, and serve as the Temple of the Israelites in Jerusalem. Jews traditionally face it while praying, in the belief that it was the location of the Holy of Holies in the Temple.

Over the centuries, control over the site has changed hands. During the Crusades, the Dome of the Rock was commandeered as a Christian shrine before returning to Islamic hands. Many medieval people believed it to be the famous Temple of King Solomon.

The Dome is maintained by the Ministry of Awqaf in Amman, Jordan. There have been times when only Muslim visitors were allowed. Entry is through a wooden walkway next to the entrance to the Western Wall. Visitors are subject to strict security screening.