Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Citadel
9
Now occupied by the Tower of
David Museum of the History of
Jerusalem
(see p104)
, the Citadel is an
imposing bastion just inside the city
wall. The present-day structure dates
principally from the 14th century and
includes additions made in 1532 by
Suleyman the Magnificent. However,
excavations have revealed remains dating back to
the 2nd century BC, and indicate that there was a
fortress here from Herodian times. This supports the
view that this is the
most likely site of
Christ's trial and
condemnation.
Ruined arch in
the courtyard
View of the Citadel and the Dome of the
Rock behind, from the New City
The Hasmonean
city
wall (2nd century
BC) is one of the
oldest finds. Part of
the same wall can be
seen in the Jewish
Quarter
(see p83)
.
Base of
an early
Islamic
tower
The mosque
was built
by the Mamelukes
above a Crusader hall.
Southeast
Tower
East Tower
The entrance
was
built with an L-shaped
hallway to impede the
progress of attackers.
Tower of David
The Citadel is also called
the Tower of David. The
misnomer dates back to
Byzantine confusion
over the geographical
layout of the city. Today
it is also applied to this
minaret, added in 1655.
Open-air
mosque
Triple-arched Gateway
This ornamental gate was built
in the 16th century. It was on
the steps in front that General
Allenby accepted the city's
surrender in 1917
(see p52).
For hotels in this area see p256
