Golden Gate, Jerusalem

The Eastern Gate of the Temple Mount, commonly known as the Golden Gate, holds significant historical and religious importance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. It is unique as the only eastern gate and one of the few entrances to Jerusalem from that side. While its construction dates vary, it is considered one of the oldest gates in the city, with origins dating back to as early as 520 AD.

Featuring a double entrance with two vaulted halls, the gate has been sealed and reopened multiple times by different rulers. Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent sealed it shut in 1541, following closures by Muslims in 810 and reopening by Crusaders in 1102, and subsequent resealing by Saladin after defeating the Crusaders in 1187.

For Jews, the gate is associated with the Messiah's future entrance into Jerusalem and is also known as the "Gate of Mercy" due to the direct access it provided to what used to be the Jewish Temple. Christians associate it with the meeting of Mary's parents after the Annunciation and Jesus' entry on Palm Sunday. Muslims refer to it as Bab al-Dhahabi ("Golden Gate") or Bab al-Zahabi ("Gate of Eternal Life"), believing it will be the site of Allah's final judgment and resurrection.

Due to its importance to all three religions, the Golden Gate remains a history-rich and controversial site. While the Jews insist that Sultan Suleiman sealed off the gate to prevent the Messiah's arrival, others argue it was done for defensive reasons. Some even claim that the cemetery built in front of the gate by the Ottomans was intended to prevent a false Messiah or "Antichrist" from passing through.

From this spot, one can easily traverse to the Temple Mount and enjoy magnificent views across the Kidron Valley to the Mount of Olives. Alternatively, one can take a little hike into the lowlands to find the old trail to Bethany, or make way to the Garden of Gethsemane.