![]() Al-Aqsa Mosque After completion of the Dome of the Rock,
construction began at the site of the original timber mosque built in
the time of 'Umar. A vast congregational mosque rose up, accommodating
more than five thousand worshippers. Originally commissioned by 'Abdul
Malik ibn Marwan, it was apparently completed by his son Al-Walid in
705AD. ![]() Al-Aqsa Mosque from the west The building became known as Masjid al-Aqsa,
Al-Aqsa Mosque, although in reality the whole area of the Noble Sanctuary
is considered Al-Aqsa Mosque, the entire precincts inviolable according
to Islamic law. Every Friday prayer, the Al-Aqsa Mosque building overflows,
with thousands of worshippers who must make their prayers outside in
the courtyards of the vast open expanse of the Noble Sanctuary. Al-Aqsa Mosque from the Dome of the Rock While the Dome of the Rock was constructed
as a mosque to commemorate the Prophet's Night Journey, the building
known as Al-Aqsa Mosque became a centre
of worship and learning, attracting great teachers from all
over the world. Return to Home Page |