Golden Gate, Jerusalem

Name: Golden Gate
Address: Jerusalem, Israel

#37 among attractions in Jerusalem

City gate

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Facts and practical information

The Golden Gate, known in Hebrew as Sha'ar Harachamim (Gate of Mercy), is a storied city gate that stands as a testament to the ancient and religious history of Jerusalem, Israel. This eastern gate, situated in the historic walls surrounding the Old City, is the oldest of all the gates to the city and holds a special place in the spiritual heart of the region.

Dating back to at least the 6th or 7th century, the Golden Gate is believed by various traditions to be the place through which the Messiah will enter Jerusalem. Its significance is rooted in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic eschatology, making it a focal point for pilgrims and scholars alike. The gate's architecture features two blocked-up arches, which have remained sealed for centuries.

The Golden Gate has undergone various periods of construction and reconstruction throughout its long history, reflecting the turbulent past of the city it guards. It was last sealed by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, a decision shrouded in mystery and legend. Some say it was to prevent the Messiah's entrance, while others believe it was a strategic move to fortify the city's defenses.

Despite its closure, the Golden Gate remains an iconic structure, often featured in the backdrop of prayers and ceremonies held at the adjacent Western Wall, and it continues to draw visitors from around the world. Its enduring presence is a symbol of the city's ancient roots and the convergence of faiths that characterizes Jerusalem's unique cultural landscape.

Local name: שער הרחמים Coordinates: 31°46'44"N, 35°14'14"E

Address

הַר הַבַּיִת‎ (har habayit)Jerusalem Israel

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Jerusalem

Day trips

Golden Gate – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Temple Mount, Dome of the Rock, Church of All Nations, Tomb of the Virgin Mary.

~540 ftSW
Hilltop compound of religious sites
Temple Mount, Jerusalem
3 min walk • The Temple Mount, a site of profound historical and religious significance, stands prominently in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. This ancient elevated platform, revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, has been a focal point of worship and conflict for...
~670 ftSW
Islamic shrine housing Foundation Stone
Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem
4 min walk • The Dome of the Rock, an iconic shrine located in the heart of Jerusalem, is a revered landmark that holds profound significance for both the city and the world. This stunning piece of architecture, completed in 691 CE, is not only one of the oldest Islamic structures...
~840 ftE
Church, Sacred and religious sites, Eclectic architecture
Church of All Nations, Jerusalem
5 min walk • Nestled at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, the Church of All Nations stands as a testament to the city's rich religious history. Also known as the Basilica of the Agony, this church is a significant site for Christian pilgrims from around the world.
~920 ftNE
Revered tomb of the Virgin Mary
Tomb of the Virgin Mary, Jerusalem
5 min walk • Nestled at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, the Tomb of the Virgin Mary is a site of deep historical and religious significance. This revered location, often simply referred to as the Church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary, is believed by many Christian...
~970 ftN
Archaeological site, Ruins, Church
Pool of Bethesda, Jerusalem
5 min walk • Nestled within the storied city of Jerusalem, the Pool of Bethesda stands as a testament to millennia of history, both sacred and secular. This archaeological site, once a place of healing and miracle according to Christian tradition, has attracted pilgrims...
~830 ftSE
1st-century CE tomb cut from the rock
Tomb of Absalom, Jerusalem
5 min walk • Nestled in the Kidron Valley, on the eastern side of the Old City of Jerusalem, the Tomb of Absalom stands as a testament to the city's ancient history. This monumental tomb, carved out of the solid rock face, is traditionally attributed to Absalom, the rebellious son...
~930 ftE
Russian-style church with golden cupolas
Church of Mary Magdalene, Jerusalem
5 min walk • The Church of Mary Magdalene is an Orthodox Christian church located on the Mount of Olives, directly across the Kidron Valley from the Temple Mount and near the Garden of Gethsemane in Jerusalem.
~610 ftSW
Temple
Solomon's Temple, Jerusalem
3 min walk • Solomon's Temple, also known as the First Temple, was the first Temple in Jerusalem, according to the Hebrew Bible. It was built during Solomon's reign over the United Kingdom of Israel and was fully constructed by c. 957 BCE.
~710 ftSW
Temple
Dome of the Prophet, Jerusalem
4 min walk • The Dome of the Prophet, also known as the Dome of the Messenger and the Dome of Muhammed is a free-standing dome in the northern Al-Haram Al-Sharif in Jerusalem.
~970 ftW
Synagogue
Little Western Wall, Jerusalem
5 min walk • The Little Western Wall, also known as HaKotel HaKatan, the Small Kotel, and the Kleiner Koisel is a Jewish religious site located in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem near the Iron Gate to the Temple Mount.
~900 ftN
Medieval church with notable acoustics
Church of Saint Anne, Jerusalem
5 min walk • The Church of Saint Anne is a French Roman Catholic church and French national domain located at before start of the Via Dolorosa, between the Lions' Gate and of the Second Station of the Cross, in the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to Golden Gate?

Nearby attractions include Bab Al-Asbat Minaret, Jerusalem (3 min walk), Temple Mount, Jerusalem (3 min walk), Moriah, Jerusalem (3 min walk), Dome of the Chain, Jerusalem (3 min walk).

How to get to Golden Gate by public transport?

The nearest stations to Golden Gate:

Bus

To go to jordan (12 min walk)
HaNevi'im Terminal • Lines: 231 (14 min walk)