The latest NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC issue whisks you away on an exceptional journey to Jerusalem’s captivating Dome of the Rock. This exclusive piece, written by Andrew Lawler and photographed by Ziyah Gafic, offers an intimate look at the iconic Dome, revealing its history, architectural marvels, and intricate tapestry of beliefs.
Nestled in Jerusalem, the Dome of the Rock, also known as the Temple Mount, holds deep significance for multiple faiths. Its golden dome shines across the city, drawing pilgrims, tourists, and scholars alike. As Islam’s third holiest site, Judaism’s most sacred spot, and an architectural masterpiece, it embodies paradoxes—reverence and dispute, devotion, and discord.
“The Dome of the Rock sits in the middle of the most complicated geopolitical knot in the world,” shared Lawler. “It took more than a year of negotiations with Jordanian government officials in Amman and Washington, and Muslim clerics in Jerusalem before National Geographic could even set foot within the premises. Then we received once-in-a-lifetime access to the site, from the cave beneath to the dome above. This article gives a rare glimpse into one of the most contested buildings in history. We hope the story helps readers better understand its unique mix of beauty and spiritual as well as political complexity.”
Within these pages, you’ll journey through time, discovering the Dome’s origins. A symbol of faith and cultural fusion, it has sparked intense convictions. To Palestinians, it signifies independence; for some Jews and Christians, it’s a puzzle destined for removal. Legends of a hidden Ark persist, harking back to treasure hunts. Centuries ago, Crusaders misunderstood its grandeur, converting it into a Christian sanctuary.
Today, the Dome is a stage for prayer, protest, and emotion. Amid its radiant backdrop, human experiences unfold, encapsulating generational tensions. Meanwhile, conservators strive to revive its faded glory, mirroring the faith it embodies.
Read more about it in National Geographic here.
