Old Jerusalem panorama as viewed westward from atop the Mount of Olives, across the Kidron
Valley. In the
foreground is the eastern wall of the city, just
beyond which lies the historic Temple Mount with its golden
Dome of
the Rock.
Although this panorama appeared serene and tranquil the morning this
photo was taken, Old Jerusale
m
is the world's most contested piece of land whose passionate people, history and conflict also make it one of the
most fascinating places I've ever visited.
Travel Tip
Referring to Jeru
salem as "Yerushalaim" to Jews and "Al Quds"
to
Arabs facilitates communication with the locals. The Hebrew and Arabic
names for the city respectively mean "to see peace" and "the holy", both
representing the city's aspirations perhaps, as much as descriptions.