Where is Herod's Gate located in relation to the Old City?

Herod’s Gate is located to the north of the Old City. It's positioned east of the renowned Damascus Gate and serves as a connector between the bustling Muslim Quarter inside the Old City and the Palestinian neighborhood of Bab az-Zahra.

Why is Herod's Gate also called the "Flower Gate"?

The gate has several names across languages. In both Arabic ("Bab az-Zahra") and Hebrew ("Sha’ar HaPrakhim"), it translates to "Flowers Gate." This floral name is believed to be associated with the stone rosette that adorns the gate tower. Additionally, in Arabic, the name carries religious implications related to resurrection and vigilance.

What historical event is Herod's Gate notably associated with?

Herod's Gate is historically significant as the point near which the Crusader army, under the leadership of Godfrey of Bouillon, breached Jerusalem's defenses in 1099. This crucial event led to the founding of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem.

Blossoming Tales of Jerusalem: Herod's Gate

One of the eight gates of the old city walls, the Herod’s Gate, also known as Flower Gate, is not the most famous gate, but one that embodies an interesting story.

Location

Herod’s Gate is situated to the north of the Old City. It lies east of the famed Damascus Gate and connects the bustling Muslim Quarter inside the Old City to the eponymic Palestinian neighborhood of Bab az-Zahra, just beyond its arches.

Herod's Gate is known by Other Names

This gate has a myriad of names across languages. In Arabic, it’s known as “Bab az-Zahra,” and in Hebrew, it’s “Sha’ar HaPrakhim,” both translating to “Flowers Gate.” The English name “Herod’s Gate” has Christian origins, stemming from the belief that a nearby house was associated with Herod Antipas’s palace. The gate’s floral moniker in both Hebrew and Arabic is believed to be linked to the stone rosette that decorates the gate tower. However, the name “Flower Gate” in Arabic also has deeper religious connotations, associated with resurrection and watchfulness.

Evolving Architecture

The gate, constructed under the auspices of the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, was originally a narrow opening, seldom used. However, as the 19th century saw populations moving beyond the walled city, the gate was expanded in 1875 to accommodate the growing traffic. The Jerusalem Foundation, in 1986, undertook a significant restoration project, transforming a former parking area into a stone-paved entrance plaza. This plaza, inaugurated on the 20th anniversary of the city’s re-unification in 1987, offers a serene spot for visitors to relax and admire the gate’s grandeur.

Historical Significance of Herod's Gate

The gate holds a pivotal place in the annals of Jerusalem’s history. It was near this gate that the Crusader army, led by Godfrey of Bouillon, breached the city’s defenses in 1099. This event marked a turning point in the city’s history, leading to the establishment of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem.

Sources and Additional Reading

Herod’s Gate – Wikipedia
Herod’s Gate – Historical Sites in Israel Herod’s Gate – Jerusalem Foundation

Sites Nearby

Rockefeller Archeological Museum: Dive into a world of ancient artifacts and relics, showcasing the rich tapestry of civilizations that once graced the region.
Damascus Gate: Located at the North of the Old City, this gateway stands as a testament to Jerusalem’s architectural prowess.
Garden Tomb: You will love this tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This site is believed by some to be the burial place of Jesus.
Zedekiah’s Cave: This vast limestone quarry beneath the Old City offers a unique exploration experience for the adventurous at heart. Are you ready for it?