The Muslim Quarter is one of the four quarters of the Old City of Jerusalem. This neighborhood is the largest and has the most residents. With a population of approximately 22,000 people, the Muslim Quarter is ten times bigger than the Jewish Quarter.
This part of the Old City is famous for lots of market stalls and shops. Arab merchants are noted for standing outside their shops, encouraging tourists to come on in and look around. The Arab Quarter also boasts many cafes and restaurants.
Famous landmarks in the Muslim Quarter include the Temple Mount, which has two Islamic shrines - the Dome of the Rock and the al-Aksa mosque. The Dome of the Rock was built upon the rock where Abraham tried to sacrifice his son, Isaac. The Koran states that this is the same rock from where the prophet, Mohammed, ascended to heaven.
To the Muslims, the al-Aksa mosque is considered to be the third holiest site (after Mecca and Medina, both of which are in Saudi Arabia) in the Islamic religion. According to Muslims, Mohammed experienced a "night journey" (dream) where he journeyed to this distant spot.
Both the Dome of the Rock and the al-Aksa mosque are closed to visitors, five times a day. During that time, the buildings are used strictly for Muslim prayers.
Other famous landmarks, located in the Muslim Quarter, are the first seven Stations of the Cross. These holy spots are of great religious significance to Christians, as they mark the journey of Jesus as he traveled to the crucifixion.
