Entrances to Al-Aqsa Mosque

The number of entrances to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, is a subject of some historical debate due to various factors such as architectural changes over time and differing interpretations of historical sources. Generally, it is accepted that there are multiple entrances to the compound housing the mosque. The entrances are not limited to those specifically leading into the prayer halls but also include gates providing access to the broader compound area.

Traditionally, there are thought to be a total of eleven gates accessing the Al-Aqsa compound, each with its own historical and cultural significance. These gates have undergone various modifications and renovations throughout history, reflecting the evolving architectural styles and religious practices of the region.

Among the most prominent entrances to the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex are the following:

1. Bab al-Maghariba (Moroccan Gate): Situated on the western side of the compound, this gate is notable for its ornate Mamluk architecture and serves as the main entrance for non-Muslim visitors to the site.

2. Bab al-Asbat (Lions’ Gate): Located on the eastern side of the Old City, this gate is named for the four sculpted lions adorning its facade. It holds religious significance in both Islam and Christianity.

3. Bab al-Hadid (Iron Gate): Positioned on the northern side, this gate has historical significance but is not as frequently used as other entrances.

4. Bab al-Amud (Column Gate): Also known as the Damascus Gate, this entrance on the northern side is one of the main access points to the Old City and its markets.

5. Bab al-Silsila (Chain Gate): Found on the northern wall, this gate is known for its intricate design and is situated near the Moroccans’ Gate.

6. Bab al-Ghawanima (Dung Gate): Located on the southern side, this gate provides access to the Western Wall and is one of the main entry points for Jewish worshippers.

7. Bab al-Asbat (Gate of the Tribes): Positioned on the western wall, this gate has historical significance but is not as commonly used as other entrances.

8. Bab al-Matarah (Tanner’s Gate): Situated on the western wall, this gate historically led to a tannery and is now a pedestrian entrance to the Western Wall Plaza.

9. Bab al-Maghariba al-Fakhri (Fakhri Gate): Located on the western side, adjacent to the Moroccan Gate, this entrance provides access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound.

10. Bab al-Atim (Gate of Darkness): Positioned on the southern wall, this gate is also known as the Double Gate and has archaeological significance.

11. Bab al-Rahma (Gate of Mercy): Situated on the eastern wall, this gate holds religious significance in Islam and is currently sealed off but has historical importance.

It’s important to note that while these are some of the main entrances to the Al-Aqsa compound, there may be additional gates or passages within the complex, and historical accounts and interpretations can vary. The significance of these entrances extends beyond mere architectural features, as they serve as points of access for worshippers, tourists, and visitors, contributing to the cultural and religious vibrancy of the site.

Certainly, let’s delve deeper into the significance and history of the entrances to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, shedding light on their architectural features, cultural importance, and historical context.

1. Bab al-Maghariba (Moroccan Gate):

   • This gate, located on the western side of the compound, is notable for its intricate Mamluk architecture, characterized by ornate decorations and geometric patterns.
   • It serves as the main entrance for non-Muslim visitors to the site, providing access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex and the Dome of the Rock.
   • The Moroccan Gate gained significance during the period of Mamluk rule in Jerusalem (13th-16th centuries) and has since been restored and renovated multiple times to maintain its historical charm.

2. Bab al-Asbat (Lions’ Gate):

   • Situated on the eastern side of the Old City, this gate is distinguished by four sculpted lions adorning its facade, hence its alternative name, Lions’ Gate.
   • The gate holds religious significance in both Islam and Christianity, as it is believed to be the site of the Judgment Day in Islamic tradition and the starting point of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem in Christian tradition.
   • Lions’ Gate has witnessed various historical events, including the entry of Ottoman Sultan Selim the Grim into Jerusalem in 1517 and the Israeli capture of East Jerusalem in 1967.

3. Bab al-Hadid (Iron Gate):

   • Located on the northern side of the compound, this gate is known for its historical significance but is not as frequently used as other entrances.
   • Its name, Iron Gate, is derived from the sturdy iron bars that once fortified its entrance, symbolizing strength and protection.
   • While less prominent than other gates, Bab al-Hadid has architectural features characteristic of Mamluk and Ottoman periods, reflecting the diverse cultural influences in Jerusalem’s history.

4. Bab al-Amud (Column Gate):

   • Also known as the Damascus Gate, this entrance on the northern side is one of the main access points to the Old City and its bustling markets.
   • The gate is named after the Roman columns that once stood nearby, remnants of the ancient city’s grandeur.
   • Damascus Gate has been a focal point for both historical and contemporary events, serving as a meeting place, marketplace, and thoroughfare for locals and visitors alike.

5. Bab al-Silsila (Chain Gate):

   • Found on the northern wall near the Moroccan Gate, this gate is known for its intricate design and historical significance.
   • Its name, Chain Gate, is derived from the chains that were once hung across its entrance to restrict access during certain times.
   • Bab al-Silsila bears architectural elements reminiscent of Mamluk craftsmanship, featuring geometric motifs and calligraphic inscriptions that adorn its walls and archways.

6. Bab al-Ghawanima (Dung Gate):

   • Located on the southern side, this gate provides access to the Western Wall Plaza and is one of the main entry points for Jewish worshippers.
   • Despite its humble name, the Dung Gate holds religious significance in Judaism, as it is situated near the Hulda Gates, believed to be the location of the Second Temple’s southern entrance.
   • The gate’s proximity to archaeological sites and religious landmarks makes it a focal point for visitors exploring Jerusalem’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

7. Bab al-Asbat (Gate of the Tribes):

   • Positioned on the western wall, this gate derives its name from the biblical reference to the twelve tribes of Israel.
   • While historically significant, Bab al-Asbat is not as commonly used as other entrances, with its architectural features reflecting the prevailing styles of the Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

8. Bab al-Matarah (Tanner’s Gate):

   • Situated on the western wall, this gate historically led to a tannery, hence its alternative name, Tanner’s Gate.
   • Today, the gate serves as a pedestrian entrance to the Western Wall Plaza, providing access to one of Judaism’s holiest sites and a focal point for prayer and pilgrimage.

9. Bab al-Maghariba al-Fakhri (Fakhri Gate):

   • Adjacent to the Moroccan Gate on the western side, this entrance provides access to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and is of historical significance.
   • Named after the Fakhri family, who played a role in the restoration of the Al-Aqsa Mosque during the Ottoman period, the gate reflects the patronage and influence of prominent families in Jerusalem’s history.

10. Bab al-Atim (Gate of Darkness):

    • Positioned on the southern wall, this gate is also known as the Double Gate due to its architectural design featuring two adjacent entrances.
    • With its archaeological significance and historical associations, Bab al-Atim offers insights into the ancient city’s layout and defensive structures.

11. Bab al-Rahma (Gate of Mercy):

    • Situated on the eastern wall, this gate holds religious significance in Islam and is currently sealed off, although it has historical importance.
    • According to Islamic tradition, the Gate of Mercy is associated with the Day of Judgment and the mercy of Allah, serving as a symbol of hope and redemption for believers.

These entrances collectively contribute to the architectural splendor, religious significance, and cultural heritage of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, reflecting the diverse influences and historical layers that characterize Jerusalem as a crossroads of civilizations.