Western Wall - Image 1

Jerusalem,Israel

Western Wall

Religious SiteUNESCOOpenSecond Temple PeriodRomanOttomanModern

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 BCE

King 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 CE

Following 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

1517-1948

During 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-present

Following 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.

Cultural Significance

The Western Wall represents the endurance of Jewish connection to Jerusalem despite centuries of exile. It serves as a symbol of national resilience and is a primary site for life-cycle events, including Bar and Bat Mitzvahs and prayers for peace. The wall is deeply integrated into the religious life of the Jewish diaspora and the State of Israel.

Interpretive Notes

Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty

There is ongoing academic discussion regarding the exact extent of the Herodian expansion and the architectural techniques used to stabilize the massive limestone blocks. Additionally, debates persist regarding the historical evolution of the wall's status as a primary site of prayer compared to other locations in the Old City.

Visiting Information

Entry Rules

Open 24/7, 365 days a year. Entry is free. Modest dress is required for all visitors (shoulders and knees covered). Men must wear a head covering (kippah), which is available at the entrance.

Best Times to Visit

Early morning or late evening to avoid large tour groups. The site is particularly crowded during Jewish holidays and Friday evenings at the onset of the Sabbath.

Photography

Photography is permitted in the plaza, but strictly prohibited in the prayer areas during the Sabbath (from Friday sunset to Saturday night) and Jewish holidays.

Preservation Notes

Do not place notes or objects in the wall crevices that could damage the masonry. The site is monitored by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation; follow all instructions from security personnel.

Nearby POIs

11 shown

Sources & Further Reading

  1. [1]
    The Western Wall: A History — Dan Bahat. Israel Exploration Society (1990)View
  2. [2]
    Jerusalem: The Biography — Simon Sebag Montefiore. Weidenfeld & Nicolson (2011)