Jerusalem

Capital of Israel and one of the oldest cities in the world

View of Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a city located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, and is considered holy to the three major Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

History

The history of Jerusalem dates back to ancient times. The city has been destroyed at least twice, besieged 23 times, attacked 52 times, and captured and recaptured 44 times. The earliest known mention of the city is in ancient Egyptian texts that refer to a city called "Urusalim," which means "City of Peace."

Ancient Period

Jerusalem's history as a significant city began in the Bronze Age, around 3000 BCE. It became a significant city in the region during the Iron Age, when it was the capital of the Kingdom of Judah.

Classical Antiquity

During the classical period, Jerusalem was a center of religious and political activity. It was the site of the Second Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.

Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, Jerusalem was a focal point of the Crusades, a series of religious wars initiated by the Latin Church in the medieval period.

Modern Era

In the modern era, Jerusalem has been a focal point of the Arab-Israeli conflict. It was divided between Israel and Jordan from 1948 to 1967, after which Israel captured East Jerusalem during the Six-Day War.

Jerusalem at night

Geography

Jerusalem is located in the Judaean Mountains, which are part of the larger Levantine mountain range. The city is situated on a plateau, which gives it a unique climate and geography compared to the surrounding regions.

Demographics

Jerusalem is a city of great diversity, with a population that includes Jews, Muslims, Christians, and other religious and ethnic groups. The city is known for its vibrant cultural life and its role as a center of religious scholarship.

Religious Significance

Jerusalem holds profound religious significance for the three major Abrahamic religions. For Jews, it is the site of the ancient Temple, the holiest place in Judaism. For Christians, it is the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. For Muslims, it is home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam.

Modern Jerusalem

Economy

The economy of Jerusalem is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, technology, and education. The city is home to several major universities and research institutions.

Culture

Jerusalem is a cultural hub, with numerous museums, theaters, and cultural events. The city hosts the annual Jerusalem Film Festival and is known for its vibrant arts scene.

Transportation

Jerusalem is served by a network of roads and public transportation, including buses and the Jerusalem Light Rail. The city is also connected to other parts of Israel by highways and railways.

The Chords Bridge in Jerusalem

Related pages

• Old City (Jerusalem)
• Temple Mount
• Western Wall
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Dome of the Rock

Old City walls at night