Why Jerusalem Old City is special
It is sacred to Christianity, Judaism and Islam - faiths that embrace one-third of humankind.
To Christians, Jerusalem is where Christ was crucified and ascended to Heaven.
To Jews, Jerusalem is the home of the Wailing Wall (remains of the Second Temple).
To Muslims, Jerusalem is the site of the Temple Mount where the prophet Muhammad rose to Heaven.

Best known sites
Jerusalem's many notable holy sites include the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount (see photo), the Wailing Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Jerusalem Old City retains much of its antiquated architectural character. This Israeli city is grandly enclosed by high, yellowish-limestone walls pierced by eight historic gates. Each of its four tradition-named residential quarters (Armenian, Christian, Jewish and Muslim) has a twisting maze of narrow cobble-stoned streets.

History in brief
Jerusalem means "City of Peace" in Hebrew, but it hasn't been exactly like that during its agitated 5,000-year history. Jerusalem has seen more than its fair share of fighting - by the Roman, Byzantine and Crusader forces, to name but three. The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed the Arab-Israeli conflicts.

What leading travel books say about Jerusalem
A visit to Jerusalem can be an intense experience.
Israel
Footprint Handbooks

Jerusalem is a beautiful city, teeming and alive.
Israel
Rough Guide