The Dome of the Rock

 
Today we went to the Temple Mount a site that is sacred to Jews, Muslims, and Christians. The Dome of the Rock is a unique building on the Temple Mount. It is an octagonal shape building that is covered with blue tiles and is topped with a golden dome. It is a major landmark of Jerusalem.

Dome of the Rock interior

 
We were able to join an academic group from the Albright Institute to see inside the Dome of the Rock. It has a magnificent interior with walls covered with marble, wonderful mosaic, and gilded wooden beams. I just love this building.

Dome of the Rock mosaics

 
The mosaics inside the Dome of the Rock are elaborate and even today they are considered outstanding workmanship. It is a stunning building and my favorite in Israel.

Dome of the Rock and Western Wall

 
This picture shows the close relationship of the Dome of the Rock on top of the Temple Mount and the Western Wall where the Jews go to pray below the Temple Mount. The Jews desire to build a third temple on top of the Temple Mount which makes very tense relations between the Muslims and the Jews.