Dome of the Rock
Yerushalayim
The Dome of the Rock is an octagonal Islamic shrine located at the heart of the Al-Aqsa mosque compound on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City. Constructed between 691 and 692 CE by the Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik, it stands on the historic site of the Second Jewish Temple, destroyed in 70 CE. The shrine is the earliest surviving Islamic architectural monument and features a distinctive octagonal plan topped with a large gold-plated dome approximately 20 meters in diameter. Its design draws inspiration from Byzantine churches and palaces, particularly in its mosaics and architectural elements. The interior is richly adorned with mosaics, faience, marble, and Qur'anic inscriptions, some dating back to the original construction period. The Dome houses the Foundation Stone, a site of immense religious significance across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, believed to be the place of creation and Abraham's near-sacrifice of his son. Over centuries, the exterior has undergone significant changes, including the addition of colorful Iznik tiles during the Ottoman era and the modern gold plating of the dome in the 20th century. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dome of the Rock remains a unique cultural and religious symbol, celebrated for its artistic grandeur and spiritual importance.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the shrine in softer natural light. Tickets or permits may be required due to the site's religious sensitivity and security measures; it is advisable to check current access rules in advance. Modest dress is required, respecting the site's religious significance. Guided tours can enrich understanding of the complex history and symbolism. No specific discounts are mentioned, but group visits and educational tours may be available.
Interesting facts
- •The Dome of the Rock is the oldest surviving Islamic architectural monument in the world.
- •Its octagonal design was influenced by Byzantine churches and palaces nearby.
- •The Foundation Stone inside is sacred in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, linked to creation and Abraham's sacrifice.
- •The original dome collapsed in 1015 and was rebuilt within a decade.
- •The golden dome was added in the 20th century, replacing earlier coverings.
- •The inscriptions inside are among the earliest to proclaim Islam and mention the prophet Muhammad.
History
The Dome of the Rock was commissioned by Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik during the Second Fitna and completed in 691–692 CE, making it the earliest surviving Islamic religious structure.
It was built atop the site of the Second Jewish Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.
The original dome collapsed in 1015 and was rebuilt in 1022–23.
During the Early Ottoman period, the exterior was redecorated with blue-and-white Iznik tiles, significantly altering its appearance.
In the 20th century, the dome was covered with a gold-plated roof, first in 1959–61 and again in 1993, enhancing its iconic status.
Place Guide
The Golden Dome1959–61, 1993
The prominent gold-plated dome crowns the shrine and is approximately 20 meters in diameter. It symbolizes the heavens and is visible from many points in Jerusalem, serving as a city landmark.
Octagonal Structure691–692 CE
The shrine's octagonal base measures about 60 meters wide and 36 meters high, surrounding the inner circular ambulatory that encircles the Foundation Stone.
Interior Mosaics and Inscriptions691–692 CE and later additions
Lavishly decorated with mosaics, faience, marble, and early Qur'anic inscriptions, the interior reflects Islamic art and theology from the Umayyad period onward.
The Foundation Stone
Located at the center of the shrine, this rock holds profound religious significance as the believed site of creation, Abraham's sacrifice, and the manifestation of divine presence.
