The Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem

Built in the 7th century by the Caliph Omar, the Al Aqsa Mosque is part of the religious buildings that form the Mosque Esplanade. It is considered the third holiest place of Islam after the Kaaba (the Mecca) and the Mosque of the Prophet (the Medina). This shows its importance for the millions of Muslims who visit it every year and go to pray. It can host up to 5,000 people indoors and several hundred thousand on the whole esplanade. It is also the largest mosque in  Jerusalem

A highly symbolic place

The Al Aqsa Mosque was built on the Temple Mount, on which was built the Temple of Solomon, son of David, and former King of Israel. It is from the ruins of this temple that originates the Wailing Wall, after its destruction in the year 70 of our era by the Romans. This explains why the site on which it is built is also considered a holy place by the Jews.

In 638, when Caliph Omar undertook the construction of the mosque, he chose this location because it represents, according to the Islamic tradition, the sacred place from which the Prophet Muhammad would have gone to heaven during his "night journey". The Muslim tradition relates that Muhammad, during one night, got on a Buraq (mythological animal like a winged horse) that would have led him to Al Aqsa from the Mecca. The prophet then prayed on the Esplanade before being led to heaven by the angel Gabriel (Jibril for the Muslims). After meeting the prophets, he would have talked to G-d to define some foundations of Islamism, such as the five daily prayers.

Due to this fact, the first Muslims prayed in the direction of the Al Aqsa Mosque for several years, before guiding their prayers to the Mecca. Today, praying in this mosque is, for many Muslims, a privilege and a single opportunity to get closer to Paradise. We may witness the enthusiasm of the hundred thousand worshippers who pray in the Temple Mount the five daily prayers.

An architectural marvel

Built in the form of a large quadrilateral surrounded by walls, the Al Aqsa Mosque has a special charm. Combining Gothic and Romanesque arts with Fatimid and Abbasid architecture, it bears witness to the different occupations of the city. Its current structure includes a large central nave with a large lead dome surrounded by three spans.

Inside the building, you can admire the splendid carved woods which captivating designs reminding the mosaics of the Dome of the Rock. The large marble columns offered by Mussolini during its last renovation of 1939 also contribute to the unique decoration of this mosque.

To be seen nearby

In the immediate vicinity of the Al Aqsa Mosque, you may visit the other building forming the Mosque Esplanade, the magnificent Dome of the Rock, recognizable by its golden reflections. With the guide who will accompany you, you may also schedule a moving tour to one of the holiest places of Judaism: the Western Wall, which is next to the Al Aqsa Mosque.