10 Fascinating Facts About the Rich History of Ancient Jerusalem
A brief look at Jerusalem and its many mysteries.
Jerusalem, a city in contemporary Israel, is revered by many as a sacred destination. Jerusalem holds special significance for the three main monotheistic religions, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. It is also disputed between Israel and Palestine, both of which claim it as their capital. These deep historical ties have resulted in a long history of brutal struggles for control of the city and its landmarks.
Jerusalem’s first human inhabitants likely arrived approximately 3500 B.C., when the Early Bronze Age began. Jerusalem became the seat of the Jewish government after its conquest by King David in 1000 B.C. About 40 years later, his son Solomon constructed the first sacred Temple.
In 586 B.C., the Jewish people were forced into exile after the Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by the invading Babylonians. Some 50 years later, the Persian king Cyrus granted Jewish requests to return to Jerusalem and construct the Second Temple. In 332 B.C., Alexander the Great conquered the city of Jerusalem.
Over several hundred years, the town changed hands between the Romans, the Persians, the Arabs, the Fatimids, the Seljuk Turks, the Crusaders, the Egyptians, the Mamelukes, and the…
