Al-Aqsa Mosque

　　     Introduction        The Al-Aqsa Mosque is located at the entrance along the stone steps by the Western Wall. It was built in 687 BC. This magnificent building with its golden dome is a landmark of Jerusalem, and its shimmering light can be seen from any angle when viewing the city.          The mosque is octagonal, with each side measuring 21 meters. Its dome is covered with genuine gold leaf and topped with a column bearing a crescent symbol. The walls are constructed of marble and adorned with Arabic patterns made of mosaic tiles, while verses from the Quran are also decorated in mosaic above the walls. The grand golden dome houses a white rocky mound within a fenced area beneath it, believed to be the spot where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac to God and where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven guided by an angel. Below the mound lies the Buraq Cave, known as the Well of Souls, said to be the center of the world.           The Al-Aqsa Mosque is regarded as another great Islamic holy site, after Mecca and Medina. For many years, Jordan has solely borne the cost of gilding the mosque.    

　　        Jerusalem, State of Palestine