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Temple Mount

Temple Mount Why Temple Mount is special
The Temple Mount in Jerusalem is home to two of the holiest sites on earth: Dome of the Rock (left photo) and Al Aqsa Mosque (right photo).

Note: From the Christian and Jewish perspective, the Dome of the Rock is the more important of the two main Temple Mount buildings. From the Muslim perspective, the Al Aqsa Mosque is more significant.

Dome of the Rock tips and insights
Construction
The Dome of the Rock was erected by the Muslims in the late 7th century to enclose a rock that is sacred to them. (The rock is also revered by Christians and Jews). The building was converted to a church in the Crusader era. Afterwards, the Dome of the Rock reverted to a Muslim shrine.

Design
The octagonal Dome of the Rock is lavishly decorated inside and out.
Al Aqsa Mosque tips and insights
Very holy
The Al Aqsa Mosque is the third holiest site in the Islamic world (Mecca and Medina shrines are number one and two, respectively).

According to Muslim tradition, the Al Aqsa Mosque marks the site on Temple Mount where Prophet Mohammed ascended to heaven on his famous Night Journey.

Construction
The Al Aqsa Mosque was originally built in the early 8th century. It was later destroyed by earthquakes and rebuilt a number of times. The last major reconstruction occurred seven decades ago.

Location in Israel
Temple Mount Map
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