13.4 Islamic and Crusader Jerusalem

Islamic and Crusader periods shaped Jerusalem's landscape. The Umayyads built the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock, transforming the city into a Muslim holy site. Crusaders later conquered Jerusalem, erecting churches and fortifications.

After Saladin's reconquest, Islamic rule returned. The Ayyubids and Mamluks invested in architecture, blending Islamic and local styles. These periods left lasting marks on Jerusalem's urban fabric, reflecting its complex religious history.

Early Islamic Jerusalem

Umayyad Rule and Architectural Developments

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• Umayyad period marked the early Islamic rule over Jerusalem, following the city's conquest in 637 CE
• Umayyad Caliphs invested in significant architectural projects, transforming Jerusalem into an important Islamic religious center
• Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Islam, was constructed during the Umayyad period
  • Believed to be the location where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during his Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj)
  • Serves as a major pilgrimage destination for Muslims worldwide
• Dome of the Rock, an iconic Islamic shrine, was built by Caliph Abd al-Malik in 691 CE
  • Erected on the site of the Second Jewish Temple, which holds religious significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
  • Features a stunning gold-plated dome and intricate geometric and floral motifs, exemplifying Islamic art and architecture

Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif

• The Temple Mount, known as Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary) in Islam, is a sacred elevated platform in the Old City of Jerusalem
• Holds immense religious importance for Muslims, as it contains the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock
• Umayyad Caliphs transformed the Temple Mount into a major Islamic religious complex
  • Constructed new buildings, including palaces and administrative structures
  • Renovated and expanded existing structures, such as the Al-Aqsa Mosque
• The development of the Temple Mount during the Umayyad period solidified Jerusalem's status as a holy city for Muslims, alongside Mecca and Medina

Crusader Jerusalem

First Crusade and the Kingdom of Jerusalem

• The First Crusade, a military campaign initiated by Pope Urban II in 1095, aimed to recapture Jerusalem from Muslim rule
• Crusaders successfully captured Jerusalem in 1099, establishing the Kingdom of Jerusalem
  • A Christian feudal state that encompassed the city and surrounding territories
  • Ruled by a series of European monarchs, including Baldwin I, the first King of Jerusalem
• The Crusader occupation of Jerusalem lasted for nearly a century, from 1099 to 1187

Crusader Architecture and Fortifications

• Crusaders embarked on extensive building projects, constructing churches, monasteries, and fortifications throughout Jerusalem
• The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most sacred sites in Christianity, was rebuilt and expanded during the Crusader period
  • Believed to be the site of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, burial, and resurrection
  • Became a major pilgrimage destination for European Christians
• Crusader fortifications, such as the Tower of David and the city walls, were strengthened and expanded to protect Jerusalem from Muslim attacks
  • These fortifications showcased advanced military architecture and engineering techniques of the time
  • Remnants of Crusader fortifications can still be seen in Jerusalem today, providing insights into the city's medieval history

Post-Crusader Islamic Jerusalem

Ayyubid Dynasty and Saladin's Reconquest

• The Ayyubid dynasty, founded by Saladin, a renowned Muslim military leader, ruled over Jerusalem following the Crusader period
• Saladin successfully recaptured Jerusalem from the Crusaders in 1187 after the Battle of Hattin
  • Restored Muslim control over the city and its holy sites
  • Demonstrated religious tolerance by allowing Christian pilgrims to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Under Ayyubid rule, Jerusalem witnessed a revival of Islamic culture, learning, and architecture
  • Madrasas (religious schools) and hospitals were established to promote education and welfare
  • Restoration and renovation work was carried out on the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock

Mamluk Period and Architectural Developments

• The Mamluk Sultanate, a powerful Islamic dynasty, ruled over Jerusalem from 1260 to 1517
• Mamluks invested in significant architectural projects, leaving a lasting impact on Jerusalem's urban landscape
  • Constructed numerous madrasas, mosques, and public buildings throughout the city
  • Examples include the Al-Ashrafiyya Madrasa, the Al-Khanqah al-Salahiyya, and the Mamluk-era city walls
• Mamluk architecture in Jerusalem showcased a blend of Islamic and local architectural styles
  • Characterized by the use of ablaq (alternating light and dark stone courses), muqarnas (honeycomb-like vaulting), and intricate geometric patterns
• The Mamluk period marked a time of relative stability and prosperity for Jerusalem, despite occasional conflicts with Crusader states and Mongol invasions