Jerusalem - Al-Aqsa Mosque

Al-Aqsa Mosque is a large place of worship located in Jerusalem and considered one of the holiest sites in the Islamic world. For Muslims, it is the third holiest mosque after the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Masjid al-Nabawi in Medina. The word "Aqsa" means "farthest," and this name is linked to the Isra and Mi'raj event in Islamic belief.

According to Islamic tradition, the foundations of Al-Aqsa Mosque were laid by King Solomon, and therefore it is also referred to as "Masjid Solomon" in some sources. Interpretations of verses from the Quran describe how Solomon utilized both humans and jinn in the construction of this temple. According to the روایت (narrative/tradition), Solomon died leaning on his staff, but the jinn did not realize he was dead and continued working; this was only discovered when his staff was eaten away from the inside by worms.

One of the most important features of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Islam is its connection to the Isra' event, believed to be the night journey of Prophet Muhammad from the Masjid al-Haram to this location, and the Mi'raj, his ascension to heaven from this place. In the Quran, when this event is described, Al-Aqsa Mosque is described as a place whose "surroundings have been blessed." Therefore, Jerusalem and its surroundings are considered sacred by Muslims.

Throughout history, this area has gone through different periods. During the Roman period (70 AD), the old temple in the area was largely destroyed. However, its sanctity continued, and it continued to be known as "Bayt al-Maqdis" (House of Jerusalem). After the conquest of Jerusalem by Caliph Umar in 638, a mosque was built in this area, and later, during the reigns of Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan and his son al-Walid, it was expanded to a structure close to its present form. The Dome of the Rock, located nearby, was also built during the same period. This structure is often confused with the Al-Aqsa Mosque, but it is actually a different building.

The Al-Aqsa Mosque is not just a single building, but a vast complex. Within this area are mosques, courtyards, madrasas (religious schools), and various other structures. One of the walls here is known as the Wailing Wall by Jews and the Buraq Wall by Muslims.

Today, the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a place of great religious, historical, and political significance. For Muslims, it holds special value beyond worship, pilgrimage, and worship; it is also considered one of the oldest and most important centers in Islamic history.

The Jerusalem Project was prepared with contributions from 360TR, STD24, and Aykut İnce.