The Dome of the Rock

The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem is one of the holiest places on earth to Muslims, Christians and Jews. Occupying a vast area in the Old City, it enshrines the Sacred Rock, the focus of pilgrimage for all three religions. Although built in 692 AD to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad's flight from Mecca to Jerusalem, the mosque is also associated with sacred Christian events and numerous Jewish historical traditions and memories. This work is a visual documentation of the monument with photographs accompanied by a range of essays and historical travellers' tales. The history, art, architecture, and cultural and religious significance of the building is also explored.

One of the most splendid achievements of holy architecture anywhere in the world, the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem's Old City is sacred to Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. Its octagonal structure is adorned with carved marble and brilliantly colored ceramic tile, and its golden dome is the highlight of the city's skyline. Sumptuous color photography captures the glory of both exterior and interior--glass windows, lush mosaics, porphyritic columns, and exquisitely detailed carpets. In combination with a bibliography, glossary of Arabic terms, and scholarly introduction exploring the cultural and religious significance of the building, this book presents the most comprehensive and satisfying visual documentation of this magnificent structure ever published.