Jerusalem
Jerusalem (Heb. Yerushalayim, Arabic al-Quds) Sacred site for Christians, Jews and Muslims. In 1980, the united city became the capital of Israel, although this status is not recognized by the United Nations (UN). Originally a Jebusite stronghold (2000–1500 bc), King David captured the city in c.1000 bc. Destroyed (c.587 bc) by Nebuchadnezzar, Herod the Great rebuilt the city in c.35 bc, but Titus destroyed it in ad 70. The Romans established the colony of Aelia Capitolina and banned Jews from the city until the 5th century. In 614 the Persians ended Christian control. In 1071 the Seljuks conquered Jerusalem, and their maltreatment of Christians precipitated the Crusades. It was held by the Ottoman Turks from 1244 to 1917, before becoming the capital of the British-mandated territory of Palestine. In 1948, it was divided between Jordan (the east) and Israel (the west). In 1967, the Israeli army captured the Old City of East Jerusalem. Notable monuments within the old city include the Dome of the Rock, the El Aqsa Mosque, and the Western Wall. Jerusalem is an administrative and cultural centre. Industries: tourism, diamond-cutting. Pop. (1997) 622,091.
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Jerusalem