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Significance of the Dome of the Rock

            In Jerusalem, Israel there is a historically significant ancient building called The Dome of the Rock. The structure was built from B.C. 688 until B.C. 691. It was originally intended to be a pilgrimage, but it soon became one of the most symbolic religious buildings to both Jews and Muslims. The Dome of the Rock was built by Abd Al-Malik for many reasons including as a symbol of the Islamic faith, but this building also has many connections to Judaism and building the Dome was a step taken in architectural history for the first time. The Dome of the Rock is a masterpiece of art history and revealed huge technological advancements for this time period. This was the first domed building of its size ever to be built successfully. The dome is approximately 20 meters in diameter and rises to a height of 30 meters above the surrounding stone. Its dome shape is a strong symbol of a soaring ascent into heaven. The circle represents wholeness and balance which are two concepts essential in Muslim faith ("About The Dome of the Rock"). The building consists of four pillars and twelve columns and forms the shape of an octagon. Each side is 18 meters wide rising to a height of 8 meters. The 45,000 blue and gold tiles are symbolic colors. Blue represents the sky which suggests infinity, while gold represents the endless knowledge of God. This was the first domed shrine that was built in history, making it not only a significant moment in Islamic history, but also in architectural history ("About The Dome of the Rock").
             While The Dome of the Rock is a sacred place to both Islamic faith and Judaism, Muslims believe that the Dome of the Rock is built on Mount Moriah. This is where Muhammad went to heaven after the journey from Mecca to Jerusalem ("About The Dome of the Rock"). This religious connection instantly makes this site important in their religions history. The building is also intended as a symbolic statement to other religions of the superiority of Islam (Macaulay-Lewis).


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