What is the Capital of Israel? Jerusalem

Israel Jerusalem

Capital City of Israel: Jerusalem

City Overview

Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel and one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history spanning more than 3,000 years. It is a city of profound significance for the three major Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Located in the heart of the country, Jerusalem serves not only as the political capital of Israel but also as a spiritual center. The city is revered by millions of people worldwide for its religious landmarks, ancient history, and its role in the region’s geopolitical landscape. See Fashionissupreme for other major cities in Israel.

Jerusalem is situated on a series of hills and mountains between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. Despite being a relatively small city in terms of population compared to global metropolises, Jerusalem’s importance goes beyond its size. It has been the capital of Israel since 1949 and is home to the Israeli government, including the Knesset (parliament) and the Prime Minister’s Office. The President’s Residence and many foreign embassies are also located in Jerusalem, although most countries have maintained their embassies in Tel Aviv due to the political status of Jerusalem.

The city’s religious significance is unmatched, with sacred sites like the Western Wall (the holiest site in Judaism), the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (sacred to Christians), and the Al-Aqsa Mosque (Islam’s third holiest site) all located within the Old City. Jerusalem’s history is marked by periods of conquest, destruction, and rebuilding, which has shaped its diverse culture and architecture. The city is also a hub for academics, artists, and diplomats.


City Facts

  • Area: 125.1 km²
  • Population: Approximately 960,000 (2023 estimate)
  • Time Zone: Israel Standard Time (IST, UTC +2), Israel Daylight Time (IDT, UTC +3) in the summer months
  • Highest Mountain: Mount Scopus – At 826 meters (2,707 feet), Mount Scopus is one of the highest points in Jerusalem, offering a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas.
  • Longest River: Jordan River – The Jordan River, about 251 kilometers (156 miles) long, forms part of the border between Israel and Jordan and has significant religious and historical importance.

Jerusalem is not only a religious and cultural center but also a city of political and social complexity. Its status as the capital of Israel is disputed by some international actors, but it remains central to the identity of the Israeli state. The city’s rich mosaic of cultural and religious groups, including Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Armenians, creates a unique and vibrant atmosphere.


Major Landmarks in Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a city of spiritual landmarks, and its streets and monuments reflect thousands of years of religious and historical significance. Here are some of the most iconic landmarks:

1. Western Wall (Wailing Wall)

The Western Wall is the holiest site in Judaism, considered the last remaining part of the ancient Second Temple destroyed in 70 CE. It is a place of prayer and pilgrimage, where Jews from around the world gather to pray, insert prayers into the cracks of the wall, and reflect on their faith. The Western Wall Plaza is also a gathering place for religious ceremonies and national celebrations.

2. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of Christianity’s holiest sites. It is believed to be the location of both the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ. The church is an important pilgrimage destination for millions of Christians every year.

3. Al-Aqsa Mosque

The Al-Aqsa Mosque is one of the most important sites in Islam. It is the third holiest mosque after Mecca and Medina. The mosque is part of the Al-Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary) and is located near the Dome of the Rock. It plays an essential role in the religious and political life of Muslims worldwide.

4. Dome of the Rock

The Dome of the Rock is an iconic Islamic shrine located on the Temple Mount. It is one of the oldest and most beautifully decorated examples of early Islamic architecture. The golden dome is a Jerusalem landmark, and it is believed to be the site where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during the Isra and Mi’raj.

5. The Mount of Olives

The Mount of Olives offers one of the most beautiful views of Jerusalem, with the Old City and its religious sites visible from its slopes. The mount holds significance in both Judaism and Christianity, with several notable locations, including Gethsemane and the Tomb of the Prophets.

6. Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem is Israel’s Holocaust Memorial and is dedicated to the memory of the six million Jews who perished during the Holocaust. Located on the Mount of Remembrance, Yad Vashem offers exhibits and archives that document the atrocities of the Holocaust and honor the memory of those who died.


Climate Overview

Jerusalem has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It is cooler than many parts of Israel due to its elevated position, especially in the winter months. The city enjoys sunny weather for much of the year, but the wet season can be rainy from November to March. Snowfall is rare but can occur in the winter months, especially on the Mount of Olives.

Monthly Climate Overview

Month Average Temperature (°C) Precipitation (mm) Sunny Days
January 9 130 12
February 10 100 13
March 13 80 17
April 17 50 21
May 21 30 26
June 25 5 29
July 28 0 31
August 28 0 31
September 24 10 26
October 18 60 22
November 13 120 17
December 10 120 12

Jerusalem’s climate makes it a pleasant place to visit most of the year, with its warm Mediterranean temperatures in the summer balanced by cooler, rainy winters.


Other Cities That Have Served as Capital in Israel’s History

Tel Aviv-Yafo (1948–1949)

For a brief period between 1948 and 1949, Tel Aviv served as the capital of the newly established State of Israel. This was mainly due to the uncertainty regarding Jerusalem’s political status during the early years of Israel’s founding. Following the 1949 Armistice Agreements, Jerusalem became the capital.


Country Facts: Israel

General Country Information

  • Population: Approximately 9.3 million (2023 estimate)
  • Area: 22,072 km²
  • Largest City: Tel Aviv (though Jerusalem is the capital)
  • Currency: Israeli new shekel (ILS)
  • Official Language: Hebrew, with Arabic also an official language in certain regions
  • ISO Country Codes: IL (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), ISR (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
  • Government: Parliamentary democracy
  • Prime Minister: Benjamin Netanyahu (as of 2023)
  • Independence: Israel declared independence on May 14, 1948.

Israel is a country of immense historical, religious, and cultural significance, with Jerusalem at its heart. The country’s modern achievements in technology, science, and education are global in scope, yet its ancient landmarks continue to draw millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. From the Dead Sea to the Negev Desert, Israel is a country that offers a unique blend of ancient and modern, tradition and innovation.