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Faith and Heritage
Within the walls of Jerusalem's Old City, less than a square kilometer, stand some of the most revered Jerusalem holy sites for Jews, Christians and Muslims. This guide to the Old City explains each place simply and respectfully, with the visiting hours, dress and etiquette that matter most.
At a glance
Old City at a glance
Jerusalem's Old City is enclosed by Ottoman walls completed in the 16th century and entered through gates such as Jaffa Gate, Damascus Gate and Zion Gate. Inside, four traditional quarters share a maze of stone lanes, markets and courtyards. The walled city is inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
This page describes religious and historic places only and takes no position on the status of the city. For hotels and practical travel, see our Jerusalem travel guide.
Great holy places
The retaining wall of the ancient Temple compound and the holiest place where Jews pray. The plaza is open day and night, with separate sections for men and women. Men cover their heads; on the Sabbath and holy days, phones and photography are put away. The Western Wall Tunnels and Davidson Center are visited by booked tour.
Official site ↗Honored as the site of the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Jesus, cared for by several Christian communities under long-standing arrangements. Typically open from about 5 am to 7 or 8 pm in summer and earlier closing in winter; lines for the Edicule are shortest at opening. Dress modestly and speak softly during the liturgy.
The raised esplanade known to Muslims as the Haram al-Sharif, or Noble Sanctuary, and to Jews as the Temple Mount. It holds the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the golden Dome of the Rock. Non-Muslim visitors may enter the esplanade, but not the mosques, through the Mughrabi Gate beside the Western Wall plaza, during limited morning hours and a short early-afternoon window, Sunday to Thursday. It is closed to non-Muslim visitors on Fridays, Saturdays and Muslim holidays, and hours change seasonally and at short notice. Expect security screening; carry no religious items, and dress fully covered.
The route of the Stations of the Cross, ending at the Holy Sepulchre. The Franciscans lead a procession on Friday afternoons.
A Crusader church known for its remarkable acoustics, beside the ancient pools.
A richly decorated cathedral lit by hanging lamps; open to visitors for afternoon vespers.
The Garden of Gethsemane, the Church of All Nations and the Dominus Flevit chapel, with a classic view across to the Dome of the Rock. One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in the world covers its slopes.
The Room of the Last Supper (Cenacle), the site honored as King David's Tomb, and the Dormition Abbey.
The citadel museum tells the city's long history; its night show is projected onto the ancient walls.
Official site ↗The World Holocaust Remembrance Center, a place of quiet reflection; free entry, closed Saturdays.
Official site ↗The rhythm of the week matters. Friday midday is the main Muslim prayer; from Friday sunset to Saturday nightfall is the Jewish Sabbath; Sunday morning is the main time for church services. Many shops close on the relevant day in each quarter. Major holidays, from Easter and Passover to Ramadan, bring large crowds and changed hours.
At every holy site, cover shoulders and knees and avoid tight clothing. Women carry a scarf. Do not photograph people at prayer, keep voices low, and follow the directions of guards and custodians. A licensed private guide is the best way to see the city calmly, especially to time a visit to the Haram al-Sharif / Temple Mount. Our customs and etiquette guide covers the basics.
Many travelers continue to Bethlehem, a short drive south, or north to Galilee. For a wider journey through the faiths, see our pages on Christian holy sites, Jewish heritage sites and the great mosques.
Non-Muslim visitors may walk on the esplanade during set visiting hours but may not enter the Dome of the Rock or the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Yes, the plaza is open around the clock and is especially peaceful late in the evening.
Long trousers or a long skirt, covered shoulders, and a scarf for women. Men receive a kippah at the Western Wall if needed.
Two full days for the Old City and the Mount of Olives; three if you add museums and Bethlehem.
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