Dome of the Rock
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the world rises above the skyline of Jerusalem: the magnificent Dome of the Rock. Its brilliant golden dome can be seen from many vantage points across the Old City, making it one of the most enduring symbols of Jerusalem.
The structure stands on a hill known as the Temple Mount, a site that has held deep religious significance for thousands of years. For Muslim, the Dome of the Rock marks the place where the Prophet Muhammad is to have ascended to heaven during the Night Journey. Because of this connection, this side is one of the most sacred locations in Islam.
The building itself dates to the 7th century and was completed around 691. Unlike a traditional mosque, the Dome of the Rock was designed as a shrine built to enclose the sacred rock at its center. Its striking octagonal structure is decorated with intricate tilework.
The golden dome sits above the rock that has long been revered in several religious traditions. In Jewish history, this site is associated with the location of the ancient First and Second Temples of Jerusalem, making it one of the holiest places in Judaism. For Christians, Jerusalem and the events connected to the hill remain central to the story of their faith.
Few places in the work carry such a deep concentration of history, faith and cultural significance. This shining dome had remained one of the most powerful and recognizable features of Jerusalem and it stands as an enduring monument for more than thirteen centuries.
Read More From Nancy
Panathenaic Stadium
Visiting the Olympic arena in Athens and sitting in the marble seats once reserved for royalty, was a special experience where we physically felt part of history. This site in Athens is the Panathenaic, meaning beautiful marble. This extraordinary venue is the only stadium ever built entirely of marble. This site was originally laid out in the 4th […]
Rosenborg Castle
While Erin and I were visiting Copenhagen, we toured Rosenborg Castle and stepped directly into Denmark’s royal history. The castle was built in the early 17th century by King Christian IV, one of Denmark’s most ambitious monarchs. Originally constructed as a summer residence in 1606 and later expanded into the Dutch Renaissance-style castle that stands today. […]
The Miracle of Santo Cristo dos Milagres
When we arrived in the Azores in May 2025, we had no idea we were stepping into one of the islands’ most sacred and remarkable celebrations. The streets of Ponta Delgada were closed to traffic, storefronts shuttered, and the city was blanketed in flowers. What we thought was an ordinary weekend turned out to be […]
