Jerusalem, Israel (Overview)
City:
Jerusalem
State, Province, Region, or District:
Jerusalem District
Country:
Israel
Overview
Note that this is just an overview page of the city of Jerusalem, with an emphasis on the Old City. Details of its many historical sites are found in additional pages on this website.
Jerusalem is revered as a holy city by half the human race. For Jews it is the city King David made the capital of his kingdom, and where the Temple stood, containing the Ark of the Covenant. For Christians, it is where Christ died, was buried and rose again, and the birthplace of the Church. For Muslims it is al-Quds (“the Holy”) because they believe Muhammad ascended to heaven from the Temple Mount during his Night Journey.
Set on the Judaean mountains of central Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem is surrounded on three sides by steep valleys: The Hinnom on the south and west, the Kidron on the east. Its history lies in layers many feet deep. Its iconic symbol, the golden-roofed Dome of the Rock, stands on the Temple Mount, also identified as Mount Moriah, where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac.
The bustling modern city of Jerusalem has spread to the west and north of the Old City. Its estimated population in 2025 was 996,732 (by World Population Review), with a total population exceeding one million in other recent reports. Jews make up about 57% of the population, while Arabs (mostly Palestinian) make up approximately 38%. In the time of Christ its population was between 20,000 and 50,000.
Reminders of the heritage of three faiths are never far away — Jerusalem has 1200 synagogues, more than 150 churches (representing 17 denominations) and more than 70 mosques.
Alternate Names
According to the Jewish Midrash, "Jerusalem has 70 names." Lists have been compiled of 72 different Hebrew names for Jerusalem in Jewish scripture. The Jerusalem municipality website lists 105 Hebrew names.
Geography & Location
Jerusalem is in the central part of Israel about 33 miles (53 kilometers) east of Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean Sea and at an altitude of 2,600 feet (800 meters) above sea level (one of the highest cities in Israel).
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Jerusalem's long history is summarized by several highlights in the timeline below:
Architecture
Jerusalem's architecture is characterized by a blend of old and new styles, deeply influenced by the city's religious, historical, and national significance. Key features include the Ottoman-era city walls, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, representing a mix of Islamic, Byzantine, and Roman-era influences. Contemporary architecture often features modern designs but is required to use the local stone, a mandate dating back to British rule.
Biblical & Historical References
Jerusalem means "City of Peace" and is mentioned several hundred times in Scripture.
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Jerusalem has played a key role as the center of God’s dwelling place and ministry on this earth. It will be the place Christ returns to in power and great glory at the end of the Great Tribulation Period. Believers will return with Him at this event. Will you be coming with him in glory or be judged by Him when He comes?
Etymology
Rushalimum – Canaanite city; referenced in 18 C BC Egyptian letters
Site Details
The following photo shows the old city, behind walls, from the south. In the center, dominating the old city, is the Golden cape of the Dome of the Rock Mosque. In the background – part of the Modern Jerusalem.