As tensions and attacks across West Asia continue, authorities have temporarily closed the Al-Aqsa Mosque - one of the most sacred sites in Islam and a landmark which has a deep historical, cultural, and spiritual meaning in the region. The closure – latest in a series of Israeli restrictions imposed at the site since the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan- has drawn global attention, not just because of the conflict surrounding Jerusalem, but also because the mosque is a powerful symbol of faith, heritage, and identity for millions of people across the world.
Located within the Haram al-Sharif, also known as the Noble Sanctuary, Al Aqsa Mosque is considered the third-holiest site in Islam, after Masjid al-Haram and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. For centuries, the revered mosque has served as a place of worship, pilgrimage, and spiritual reflection.
While the compound of the mosque - constructed by the Umayyad Caliphate around 685 B.C. and 715 C.E, is administered by Jordan, access to the site itself is controlled by Israeli security forces. Under the decades-old status quo that is maintained by Israeli authorities, Jews and other non-Muslims are allowed to visit the compound during specified hours, but they are not permitted to pray there or display religious symbols.
The current structure, which was significantly destroyed in recurrent earthquakes and conflicts, still maintains the outline of the 11th-century rebuilding.
The current structure still maintains the outline of the 11th-century rebuilding
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The name Al Aqsa translates to the farthest mosque, which references the Islamic belief that Prophet Muhammad journeyed there during the Isra and Mi'raj, a deeply revered event in Islamic tradition.
While the complex of the mosque is vast, it covers around 35 acres, which includes several historic structures, courtyards, prayer halls, and religious schools. There is a Dome of the Rock nearby, which has the iconic golden dome - often visually associated with the compound and is among Jerusalem’s most recognizable landmarks.
The iconic golden dome of the mosque is among the most recognisable landmarks of Jerusalem
The Old City of Jerusalem, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses Al Aqsa within a network of historic markets, ancient streets, and sacred landmarks that belong to multiple faiths.
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