Jerusalem To Jabal al-Baba

Jerusalem To Jabal al-Baba

Jerusalem, as a holy city for Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Archaeological excavations show that the history of the city goes back over than 5,000 years ago. Among its 220 historic monuments are the Al-Aqsa mosque and the Dome of the Rock, built in the seventh century, which stand as magnificent pieces of architecture. It is also home to the church of the Holy Sepulcher, which houses Christ’s tomb.

The city has been known by different names through its history: Urusalim, Jebus, Aelia Capitolina, the City, Beit Al-Maqdis, and Al-Quds. Jerusalem’s sites and long history presented an exceptional testimony to several ancient civilizations: The Bronze Age, the Iron Age, the Hellenistic era, the Romans, the Byzantine, the Crusaders, the Umayyad, the Abbasid, the Fatimid, the Ayyubid, Mameluk, and the Ottoman periods.

The old city of Jerusalem and its walls is one of the best-preserved medieval Islamic cities in the world. It is divided into four main quarters: The Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Armenian Quarter and the Jewish Quarter. The old city has been home to various cultures, which is reflected in the architecture and planning of the city and its sacred buildings, streets, markets, and residential quarters. Today, Jerusalem’s living traditions continue, making the city the heart of human history.

Explore the hidden gems inside the city walls of Jerusalem and wander through the old markets.

Starting from Damascus Gate, the trail takes you through the old and different quarters inside the old city of Jerusalem where you will see the vivid colors and different food tastes. Leaving the old city walls and heading towards the Mount of Olives, you will encounter different religious sites along the way until you reach the top of the mountain with a spectacular panoramic view.

Arriving al-Tur the trail starts to descend towards the village of al-Eizariya after crossing Zaytouna Checkpoint. You will get the chance to visit the Tomb of Saint Lazarus, which is traditionally known to be the site of a miracle recorded in the Gospel of John in which Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.

After a walk in the village, you will reach a hill that is called “Jabal al-Baba”, which means the Pope’s Mountain, since the land is originally owned by the Vatican and it is currently used by the Bedouins for accommodation.

Photos of Jerusalem Region

Jerusalem to Jabal al-Baba 

Distance: 7.8km

Time: 3-4 Hours

Challenge: Moderate

Stage Logistics:

Post about Palestine Heritage Trail al-Khalil: