Herod's Gate, Jerusalem - The Qalat Al Bahrain. A historical site in Bahrain recognized by UNESCO.
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Herod's Gate Jerusalem

4.5
·3k reviews·Jerusalem,

Ottoman-era gate in Jerusalem's Old City, a historic passage to the Muslim Quarter and start of the Via Dolorosa.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Herod's Gate, Jerusalem - The Qalat Al Bahrain. A historical site in Bahrain recognized by UNESCO.

Herod's Gate Jerusalem

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ottoman-era gate in Jerusalem's Old City, a historic passage to the Muslim Quarter and start of the Via Dolorosa.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A vital gateway to Jerusalem's historic heart, rich with culture and ancient stories."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Respect Security Rules

No photos or videos of soldiers. CCTV is everywhere. Listen to your guide!

🗺️ Get a Good Map

The Old City's alleys can be confusing. A reliable map is essential for navigation.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Herod's Gate Entrance

Herod's Gate Entrance

Muslim Quarter

An impressive Ottoman-era gate, a vital passage into the historic Old City.

Proximity to Via Dolorosa

Proximity to Via Dolorosa

Old City

Walk the path of Jesus's final steps, marked by 14 stations of the cross.

The Golden Gate (Gate of Mercy)

The Golden Gate (Gate of Mercy)

Eastern Wall

A sealed gate with profound religious prophecy, facing the Mount of Olives.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Herod's Gate

Herod's Gate is a key entry point to Jerusalem's Old City, especially for accessing the Muslim Quarter. Be aware of security checkpoints and local customs; photography of soldiers is strictly prohibited.TikTok Plan your route in advance using a map to avoid getting lost in the winding alleys.

Understanding the Significance

Herod's Gate, also known as Bab az-Zahra, is one of the seven open gates to the Old City.Instagram It's a historical landmark with layers of ancient ruins beneath its Ottoman-era structure. The nearby Golden Gate (Gate of Mercy) holds deep religious significance for Christians, Jews, and Muslims.TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on the walls
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

via dolorosa
@zeidaner
504.1K likes • 3.8M views

🎯 Respect Security Rules

No photos or videos of soldiers. CCTV is everywhere. Listen to your guide! TikTok

🗺️ Get a Good Map

The Old City's alleys can be confusing. A reliable map is essential for navigation. Reddit

La Puerta Dorada Golden Gate Jerusalen, Israel 🇮🇱 Puerta de Sion Sion Gate Puerta de Jaffa Jaffa Gate Puerta de Leones Lions Gate Puerta de Herodes Herodes Gate Puerta Nueva New Gate Puerta de los Desperdicios Dung Gate Puerta de Damasco Damascus Gate 8 puertas Muro de los Lamentos Western Wall a Remnant of the Temple “Y se afirmarán sus pies en aquel día sobre el monte de los Olivos, que está en...
@christiantravelers
75.1K likes • 1.7M views
ألذ صحن حمص على كيف كيفكم 👌 Uncle Moustache Restaurant - Jerusalem - Old City- Herod's Gate للتواصل على الوتساب +972544284719
uncle.moustache.restaurante
15 likes • 260 views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry water. There are places to refill.

Herod’s Gate 📍Sultan Sulayman St. Old City Jerusalem📍historical landmark Herod's Gate is one of the seven open Gates of the Old City of Jerusalem. In the Muslim Quarter . It is a short distance to the east of the Damascus Gate #oldcityjerusalem #gate #ILoveJERUSALEM #ofwinisrael #traveljourney #fbreels #cttomusic #disclaimernocopyrightinfringementintended #fypシ゚viralシ followers #highlightseveryon...
loriercarreon
4 likes • 89 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Respect Security Rules

No photos or videos of soldiers. CCTV is everywhere. Listen to your guide! TikTok

🗺️ Get a Good Map

The Old City's alleys can be confusing. A reliable map is essential for navigation. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort! Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry water. There are places to refill.

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be mindful of people and private property when taking photos. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Herod's Gate a historically rich and culturally vibrant entry point into Jerusalem's Old City, particularly for exploring the Muslim Quarter and the Via Dolorosa. While the bustling markets and ancient architecture are highlights, some find the narrow alleys disorienting and advise caution regarding security and photography rules.

"This is one of the ways into the Old City. Through here, you’ll find some of the tastiest street food in town – hummus and falafel! You can really see how people live there. It’s a beautiful, charming place with a great vibe.

Along the way, you'll find many churches that are linked to the events surrounding the death of Jesus."

marah sarhan

"The vibrant part of historical Jerusalem. This Gate regulary is a bit quiter then others. The shops and hotels are mostly belong to arabs."

yuri daich

"Jerusalem Herod’s Gate
Herod’s Gate, modest and less frequented than its counterparts, is a quiet but meaningful entrance into the Old City’s Muslim Quarter. Located on the northern wall, near bustling East Jerusalem, the gate derives its name from its association with a nearby structure once linked, perhaps inaccurately, to King Herod. In Arabic, it’s called “Bab az-Zahra,” which connects it to a local neighborhood and reveals layers of linguistic and cultural history. Unlike the grand facades of Damascus or Jaffa Gates, Herod’s Gate exudes simplicity and function, making it a fascinating lens into the everyday life of the city. The gate’s current form dates to the Ottoman period, and it was originally sealed and later opened in the 19th century to ease access between neighborhoods. Passing through, visitors enter a more residential, authentic part of the Old City where tradition is lived, not displayed. Local shops, schools, and quiet homes fill the narrow streets just inside, giving a rare view into the rhythm of Jerusalem beyond its most famous landmarks. Herod’s Gate may not boast ornate towers or tourist crowds, but its understated character offers something just as valuable: a genuine window into the lives that shape the city today."

Stav Konchtyk

What People Like

Historic architecture
Vibrant market atmosphere
Access to Muslim Quarter

What People Dislike

Confusing alleys
Crowded areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Herod's Gate is located in the Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City. You can reach it by walking from Damascus Gate or by taking public transport to the Old City and then navigating through the markets. Many visitors find it a convenient entry point for exploring the Muslim Quarter.Instagram

Yes, you can take buses to the main bus station near the Old City and then walk to Herod's Gate. Taxis are also readily available. Once inside the Old City, it's a matter of walking through its historic streets.Reddit

The area around Herod's Gate is part of the bustling Old City. Having a good map or using a GPS app on your phone is highly recommended, as the narrow alleys can be disorienting. Many travelers suggest getting lost is part of the experience, but a map helps you find your way back.Reddit

Parking directly at Herod's Gate is not feasible due to its location within the Old City walls. There are parking lots available outside the Old City, such as near Jaffa Gate or Damascus Gate, from which you can walk or take a short taxi ride.

Absolutely! Herod's Gate is well-connected to other gates within the Old City. It's a short walk to Damascus Gate and a moderate walk to Jaffa Gate or the Lion's Gate, allowing you to explore different parts of the historic walls.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Herod's Gate itself is a public access point to the Old City and does not require a ticket. Entry into the Old City through any of its gates is free. However, specific attractions within the Old City may have admission fees.

Herod's Gate is generally open 24 hours a day, as it's a primary access point to the Old City. However, individual shops and businesses within the Muslim Quarter will have their own operating hours.

Yes, like other gates to the Old City, there may be security personnel present. Visitors are advised to be respectful and follow any instructions given by security forces. Photography of soldiers is strictly prohibited.TikTok

No, there is no entrance fee to enter the Old City of Jerusalem through Herod's Gate or any other gate. The Old City is a living, breathing historic area accessible to all.

Many guided tours of Jerusalem's Old City begin or pass through Herod's Gate, especially those focusing on the Muslim Quarter or the Via Dolorosa. It's advisable to book tours in advance through reputable tour operators.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Herod's Gate is a gateway to the vibrant Muslim Quarter, offering access to bustling markets, local eateries, and historical sites. It's also a starting point for the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus took to his crucifixion.TikTok

Yes, Herod's Gate is considered a convenient starting point for the Via Dolorosa, which begins at the first station near the gate and continues through the Old City.TikTok Many pilgrims and tourists begin their journey here.

The area around Herod's Gate is filled with shops selling souvenirs, religious items, spices, textiles, and local crafts. It's a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Middle Eastern market.TikTok

Herod's Gate is located in a busy part of the Old City. While generally safe, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded market areas. Listen to your tour guide's advice regarding safety and photography.TikTok

The Golden Gate, also known as the Gate of Mercy, is located on the eastern wall of the Old City. It's sealed shut and holds deep religious prophecy for Christians, Jews, and Muslims, believed to be where Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and where the Messiah will enter upon his return.TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Muslim Quarter surrounding Herod's Gate offers numerous local eateries and street food vendors. You can find traditional Palestinian dishes, falafel, shawarma, and sweet treats. Uncle Moustache Restaurant is located near Herod's Gate.Instagram

Expect to find delicious hummus, tahini, falafel, shawarma, knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry), and various grilled meats. The flavors are rich and authentic to the region.

Yes, many local restaurants offer excellent vegetarian options, including falafel, hummus plates, vegetable stews, and salads. It's easy to find satisfying meat-free meals.

Absolutely. You'll find small cafes and tea houses scattered throughout the Muslim Quarter, perfect for a refreshing mint tea or a strong Arabic coffee while taking a break from exploring.

Street food can be a delicious experience, but it's always best to choose vendors that appear clean and have high turnover. Look for busy stalls where food is cooked fresh.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the imposing architecture of Herod's Gate itself, the bustling market scenes in the Muslim Quarter, and the ancient stones of the Old City walls. The Golden Gate also offers a unique photographic subject.TikTok

Yes, it is strictly forbidden to photograph soldiers or security personnel in Jerusalem. Be mindful of people's privacy and always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warm glow on the ancient stone. Midday sun can be harsh.

You can take photos of the general market atmosphere, but it's polite to ask permission before photographing individual vendors or their stalls up close.

While direct viewpoints are limited within the immediate vicinity of Herod's Gate, exploring the ramparts or seeking higher ground within the Old City can offer panoramic views. The Golden Gate area provides a distinct perspective.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Herod's Gate offers a glimpse into a vibrant, historic city. While the narrow alleys of the Muslim Quarter can be challenging with strollers, the experience of the bustling markets can be exciting for older children. Consider focusing on the more open areas near the gate and perhaps a guided tour that highlights the historical aspects in an engaging way.

For families, it's essential to keep a close eye on children in crowded areas. The Via Dolorosa, starting near Herod's Gate, can be a powerful educational experience, but might be more suitable for older children who can grasp the historical and religious context. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking on uneven terrain.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Herod's Gate is an excellent entry point for budget travelers as it provides free access to the Old City and its vibrant Muslim Quarter. You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere, explore the markets, and enjoy affordable local street food like falafel and shawarma.Instagram

Instead of expensive guided tours, consider purchasing a good map and exploring independently. Many of the most memorable experiences in the Old City come from simply wandering and observing daily life. Be mindful of souvenir prices in the markets and practice polite bargaining if you choose to purchase items.

🙏 Religious Pilgrims

For Christian pilgrims, Herod's Gate is a significant starting point for the Via Dolorosa, tracing Jesus's final journey.TikTok The proximity to the Golden Gate, with its profound prophecies, also makes this area a focal point for spiritual reflection.TikTok+1

Muslim visitors will find themselves in the heart of the Muslim Quarter, with easy access to the Temple Mount complex (though access to the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque has specific entry requirements). Jewish visitors can also access the Western Wall from other gates, but the historical context of the Golden Gate is relevant to Jewish tradition as well.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Layers of History at Herod's Gate

Herod's Gate, known locally as Bab az-Zahra, is more than just an entrance; it's a testament to Jerusalem's layered history. The current structure is an Ottoman-era gate built in the 16th century by Suleiman the Magnificent, but it stands atop and incorporates remnants of much older fortifications. This gate has served as a crucial access point for centuries, connecting the Old City with the surrounding neighborhoods and trade routes.

Beneath the Ottoman stonework lie layers of history dating back to Roman and even earlier periods. Excavations and historical records suggest that the area has been fortified and used as an entrance for millennia. Walking through Herod's Gate is like stepping through a portal that bridges different eras of Jerusalem's complex past. The strategic importance of this gate is evident in its robust construction and its position within the city's defensive walls.

Travelers often remark on the feeling of history emanating from the very stones of the gate and its surroundings. The blend of ancient ruins and the vibrant, living culture of the Muslim Quarter creates a unique atmosphere. It’s a place where the past is not just remembered but is actively present in the daily lives of the people who pass through it.Instagram

Religious Significance: The Golden Gate

Just a short distance from Herod's Gate, on the eastern wall of the Old City, lies the Golden Gate, also known as the Gate of Mercy. This ancient gate is of immense religious significance to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, though it is currently sealed shut.

For Christians, it is believed that Jesus entered Jerusalem through this gate on Palm Sunday, and prophecy states that the Messiah will enter through it upon his return. This belief has led to the gate being sealed for centuries, awaiting this prophesied event.TikTok+1 The sealed nature of the gate adds to its mystique and spiritual weight for believers.

Muslims also hold the Golden Gate in reverence, associating it with significant religious events and prophecies. Jews traditionally believe that the priests would pass through this gate to bring the ashes of the red heifer, a crucial element in purification rituals. The shared reverence for this sealed gateway underscores Jerusalem's status as a holy city for multiple faiths, making the area around Herod's Gate a focal point of spiritual contemplation.TikTok

Navigating the Muslim Quarter

Herod's Gate serves as a primary entry point into the bustling Muslim Quarter, one of the four quarters of Jerusalem's Old City. This area is a labyrinth of narrow, winding alleyways filled with vibrant souks (markets), local shops, and traditional eateries. It's a sensory experience, alive with the sounds, smells, and sights of daily life.

Navigating the Muslim Quarter can be an adventure in itself. While it can feel overwhelming at first, embracing the experience and allowing yourself to wander is key. Many visitors find that getting a little lost leads to discovering hidden gems, from artisan workshops to small, family-run restaurants. A good map is helpful, but so is a sense of curiosity.Reddit

When exploring, remember to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded market areas, and always heed advice from guides or locals regarding safety and photography, as photographing soldiers is strictly prohibited.TikTok

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