The Western Wall: Judaism's Holiest Site in Jerusalem's Old City

The Western Wall (Hebrew: Kotel; also called the Wailing Wall) is located in the Old City of Jerusalem.

Significance

• Holiness site for Jews worldwide.
• Believed to be the last standing remnant of the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.
• Situated on the western flank of the Temple Mount.
• Length: ~488 ft (149 m) of exposed wall; much more extends underground.

Visitation

Thousands visit daily for prayer, reflection, and placing written notes in the wall's crevices. It is a focal point of Jewish identity and continuity.