The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is an ancient limestone retaining wall in the Old City of Jerusalem. It was originally constructed as part of the expansion of the Second Jewish Temple platform, initiated by Herod the Great around 19 BCE. The wall stands as a remnant of the supporting structure that enclosed the Temple Mount, which served as the center of Jewish religious life until the destruction of the Temple by the Romans in 70 CE.
Today, the site is the most significant place of prayer for the Jewish people, as it is the closest accessible point to the site of the Holy of Holies. The wall is divided into gender-segregated prayer sections and is visited by millions of pilgrims and tourists annually, functioning as a focal point for both religious observance and national identity.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Meleke limestone
- Civilization
- Herodian (Roman-era Judea)
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible via the Dung Gate entrance
- Date(s)
- c. 19 BCE
- Condition
- Active religious site, well-preserved
- Original Function
- Retaining wall for the Temple Mount platform
- Key Figures
- Herod the Great, Solomon
Herodian Construction
1st century BCEKing Herod the Great expanded the Temple Mount platform, constructing massive retaining walls to support the enlarged esplanade. The Western Wall was one of four walls built to stabilize the artificial hill.
Roman Destruction
70 CEFollowing the Great Jewish Revolt, Roman legions destroyed the Second Temple. The Western Wall survived as a structural support for the platform, becoming a site of mourning and pilgrimage for Jews who were largely barred from the city.
Ottoman and British Mandate
1517-1948During Ottoman rule, the area near the wall became a densely populated neighborhood. Tensions regarding prayer rights and access increased during the British Mandate, leading to the 1929 riots.
Modern Era
1967-presentFollowing the Six-Day War in 1967, the area in front of the wall was cleared to create a large plaza for public prayer. The site is now under the administration of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation.