Dome of the Rock

Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock, identifiable by its gilded dome and bright blue tile façade, is among the most famous and most photographed sites in the city. Discover why this Islamic shrine is considered sacred in both Islam and Judaism.

Take a guided tour of Temple Mount complex, within which the Dome of the Rock is located, to find out more about the history of the shrine. Originally built by the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik in the 7th century, it later came under Crusader control. It was restored by the 12th-century sultan of Egypt and Syria, Saladin, and turned back into an Islamic shrine.

Admire the lavish design of the shrine’s exterior. The front is covered with Persian tiles. These were first put there under orders from Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, though the originals became weathered and were replaced with new tiles in the 20th century.

Gaze up at the glinting gold-covered dome, perhaps the most recognizable feature of the structure. The dome was made of solid gold when it was first constructed, but the valuable metal disappeared. The gold leaf on it today was a gift from King Hussein of Jordan in 1994.

Learn about the importance of the shrine as a holy site. Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammad began his ascension to heaven from a rock now located inside the shrine. According to Jewish tradition, the shrine is the site where Abraham, under instruction from God, prepared to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac.

If entry is allowed during your visit, remove your shoes and venture inside. The interior is carpeted and features stained-glass windows. A strand of hair, said to belong to the Prophet Muhammad, is kept here near the holy rock.

Dome of the Rock is located in Temple Mount, a complex encompassing sites considered holy by Christians, Muslims and Jews. The complex is generally open Monday through Thursday and entrance is free. If you are a Muslim, enter the Dome of the Rock. Other visitors can view the holy shrine from outside.