Western Wall

הכותל המערבי / حائط البراق

A section of the retaining wall on the western side of the Temple Mount from the Second Temple period. It is the holiest prayer site in Judaism and is known in Islamic tradition as the Al-Buraq Wall.

The Western Wall is part of the retaining wall on the western side of the Temple Mount, built in the 1st century BCE when Herod the Great expanded the Second Temple. After the Roman army destroyed the Temple in 70 CE, this stretch of wall became a place where Jews prayed and mourned, which is why it is often called the “Wailing Wall.” In Islamic tradition, it is linked to the story of the Prophet Muhammad's Night Journey, and it is called the “Al-Buraq Wall.” The plaza in front of the wall is open to everyone. The prayer area is divided into a men's section (on the left, larger) and a women's section (on the right). Men must wear a head covering to enter; paper kippot are available free at the entrance. Everyone must dress modestly. Many people place notes with their wishes in the cracks between the stones. Coming-of-age ceremonies are often held on Monday and Thursday mornings. On Friday evenings, when the Sabbath begins, worshippers gather in large numbers, creating a solemn scene. Photography and phone use are prohibited during the Sabbath and Jewish holidays. From the north side of the plaza, you can book a visit to the Western Wall Tunnel, which follows the Herodian-era foundations underground to the northern end and shows ancient strata (reservation on the official website required; separate fee). There is a security check at the entrance. You can enter from Dung Gate, or through the alleys of the Jewish and Muslim Quarters. Before traveling, be sure to check the latest safety advisories from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the local Chinese embassy or consulate.

Western Wall

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