January 01, 2012

OAT Israel: Dome of the Rock

 
The Dome of the Rock dominates the Jerusalem skyline.  It was built in AD 688-91 by Abd el-Malik and covers the spot where Abraham is believed to have prepared for the sacrifice of his son Isaac.  The dome used to be copper but with the financial aid of the late King Hussein of Jordan, the dome is now gilded in gold. 
 
 We waited in line for hours to pass through security although we were not allowed into any interiors. We got closer views of a "Qanatir" (above) and "Asbat Minaret" (below) 
The grey dome is the Al-Aqsa Mosque and third most holy site to Muslims after Mecca and Medina.  The Temple Mount is where Mohammed ascended to heaven. 

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