Al Aqsa Mosque

Just to the south of the Dome of the Rock is the Al Aqsa mosque. It was built in 709 A.D. to commemorate the site where Mohammed left his horse before ascending to the top of Mt. Zion and being caught up to the 7th heaven. The mosque has been heavily damaged over the centuries by earthquakes that didn't affect the dome built on the rock.

Jordan's King Abdullah was assasinated at the door of this mosque on July 20, 1951. His son, the late King Hussein, was saved only because of the heavy medals and decorations he wore on his chest.

The fountain in front of the mosque is for ablutions, the washing of feet. It is connected to cisterns below with a ten million gallon capacity!

Before entering any mosque, visitors must remove their shoes, and in most cases leave their cameras. Everyone is required to wear clothing that covers nearly all parts of their bodies. No shorts or bare shoulders. At this site, cloth coverings are provided to anyone who does not come prepared.