Al-Aqsa Mosque | Port Louis

Al-Aqsa Mosque is a major Islamic site located in the Old City of Jerusalem. It is considered the third holiest site in Islam and is part of the larger religious complex known as Al-Haram al-Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary) or the Temple Mount.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque is a large rectangular structure featuring a prominent silver-lead dome and a facade of arched bays. Its architecture is a blend of various styles resulting from centuries of renovations, including Umayyad, Abbasid, and Fatimid influences. The interior is characterized by vast prayer halls with marble columns, intricate mosaics, and a richly decorated mihrab (prayer niche).

Location & Access Logistics

The mosque is situated in the southeastern corner of the Old City of Jerusalem. Access for visitors is primarily through the Maghariba (Moor's) Gate, though multiple gates exist for Muslim worshippers. The Old City is a pedestrian-only zone; visitors typically arrive at the nearby Dung Gate or Jaffa Gate via public bus or light rail and continue on foot. Strict security protocols are in place at all entrances.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Originally built as a small prayer house by Umar, the second caliph, the mosque was expanded and formalized by the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik and finished by his son al-Walid in 705 CE. The structure has survived multiple earthquakes and subsequent reconstructions, notably in the 11th century. It sits on a massive artificial plateau constructed over the natural limestone bedrock of Mount Moriah.

Key Highlights & Activities

The site is a focal point for daily Islamic prayers and Friday sermons, which can draw tens of thousands of worshippers. Key architectural highlights include the silver dome, the ornate wooden minbar (pulpit), and the vast Al-Qibli Chapel. Non-Muslim visitors are generally allowed to enter the courtyard during specific non-prayer hours but are typically restricted from entering the interior of the mosque building.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The surrounding compound offers vast open courtyards, stone benches, and ancient trees providing shade. Ablution facilities and restrooms are located within the sanctuary grounds. Due to the sensitive nature of the site, there are no commercial food vendors inside the gates, but the surrounding Old City markets offer comprehensive amenities. Cellular signal (4G/5G) is generally available but may be inconsistent near the massive stone structures.

Best Time to Visit

For non-Muslim tourists, visiting hours are strictly limited to early morning (typically 07:30 to 10:30) and a short period after midday, excluding Fridays and religious holidays. Early arrival is mandatory to clear security checkpoints. The atmosphere is most serene in the early morning. Visitors must adhere to a strict modest dress code (covering shoulders and legs).

Facts & Legends

According to Islamic tradition, Al-Aqsa is the site where the Prophet Muhammad was transported during the Night Journey (Isra) and from where he ascended to heaven (Mi'raj). It served as the first qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims before it was changed to Mecca. A historical oddity is that during the Crusader period, the mosque was repurposed as a palace and known as the "Temple of Solomon."

Nearby Landmarks

Dome of the Rock: 0.1km North

Western Wall: 0.2km West

Church of the Holy Sepulchre: 0.6km Northwest

Mount of Olives: 0.8km East

Tower of David: 0.8km West