The Farthest Mosque
Life of Jerusalem’s al-Asqa mosque
Taking up a significant portion of the Old City of Jerusalem, the al-Aqsa sanctuary is an exceptional historical and religious complex, with the Dome of the Rock dominating a central platform, its unique architectural design and empowering golden dome is instantly recognizable the world over.
For many Muslims and non-Muslim alike, the complex is hidden behind a veil of politics and conflict, with the Dome of the Rock taking center focus while the rest of the complex is largely ignored. In reality it is a magnificent open-air museum, shrine, campus and public park, all rolled into one.
Measuring in at 144 acres, the area contains hundreds of landmarks from raised prayer platforms, to water fountains, schools, shrines, tombs and gates, each a snapshot of a history that spans 14 centuries.
The complex is also a symbol of the Palestinian Diaspora, a place that has been out of reach and off limits to the Arab and Muslim world for over 70 years (even those who live on the outskirts of Jerusalem need permission to visit the complex) while the local Jerusalemite population are allowed access based on the whim of the occupation. This separation has elevated an already revered site into one of folkloric legend, which many yearn to see in person but are unable.
The contention and violence over the decades has also affected the ability for non-Muslims to experience the site — entrance is restricted to a few hours a day with visitors only allowed to explore the exterior areas.
And so, for Jerusalemites the complex provides a solitary safe haven from the sea of chaos and oppression beyond its walls (which sadly is violated more and more as time passes), people come not only for worship but for socialising, education, and meditation. All combined creates one of the most unique atmospheres I have ever encountered.
Through the course of multiple visits to the site between 2017-2023, I endeavoured to capture this unique atmosphere via ‘street- style’ photography of everyday life that I encountered. An attempt to reflect a population’s only refuge which they hold dear.
