Lions' Gate

The Gates of Jerusalem

The Lions’ Gate, also known as St. Stephen’s Gate, is one of the eight gates of the Old City of Jerusalem and is located on the city’s eastern side. The gate was named after the four lion sculptures that adorn the gate’s facade, which are believed to have been added during the rule of the Mamluk Sultanate in the 14th century.


Lions' Gate - Front
The View of the Gate Coming in to the Old City
Credit: Andrew Shiva / Wikipedia

The Lions’ Gate has significant historical and religious importance. It is the gate through which the Israeli paratroopers entered the Old City during the Six-Day War in 1967 and captured the Temple Mount and the Western Wall. This event is celebrated annually by Israelis as Jerusalem Day.


Gates-of-the-Old-City-of-Jerusalem-Lions-Gate
The Four Lion Sculptures Adorn the Gate’s Facade Are Believed to Have Been Added During the Rule of the Mamluk Sultanate in the 14th Century.

Lion’s Gate and the Christian Tradition

The gate is also important to Christians as it is believed to be where St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was stoned to death outside the city walls. According to the New Testament, St. Stephen was one of the seven deacons appointed by the apostles to distribute food and aid to the poor in Jerusalem. He was accused of blasphemy by Jewish leaders and was subsequently tried and stoned to death. His story is recounted in the Book of Acts in the Bible. Near the gate, there is also the Pool of Bethesda.


Lion’s Gate in the 19th Century

The Lions’ Gate is also significant to Muslims as it is one of the gates that lead to the Temple Mount, one of the holiest sites in Islam. The Temple Mount is believed to be where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven during his Night Journey, as described in the Quran.

The Gates of the Old City
Old City Jerusalem Tour - Muslim Quarter - Damascus Gate

Today, the Lions’ Gate is a popular site for visitors to the Old City of Jerusalem. The gate leads to the Muslim Quarter and is near several important landmarks, including the Church of St. Anne, the Pool of Bethesda, and the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus is believed to have taken on his way to his crucifixion.

The Lions’ Gate is a symbol of Jerusalem’s rich history and diverse religious traditions and a testament to its people’s resilience and enduring spirit.


arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Shiloh Excavations In The City Of David

RELATED POSTS

Yaacov Agam Museum of Art

The Yaacov Agam Museum of Art is a stunning tribute to the life and work of one of Israel's most celebrated artists.

Hamat Tiberias National Park

Hamat Tiberias National Park is a harmonious blend of archaeological wonders, therapeutic hot springs, and scenic beauty! Let's Go!

Tel Beer Sheva National Park

Tel Beer Sheva National Park is classical biblical tel that showcases what is a biblical town in the time of Abraham and the Iron Age.

Rosh Pinna

Rosh Pinna is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, old stone houses, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Israel’s Top Sites

What are Israel's Top Sites?! Well, you've reached the right place. I've compiled here the best guide for the top destinations in Israel!

Nazareth Village

Nazareth Village is an open-air museum in Nazareth. Nazareth Village reconstructs and reenacts village life in Galilee in the time of Jesus.

Ben Zion David Yemenite Art

Ben Zion David Yemenite Art is renowned worldwide! His art is one of the few that preserve the traditional Yemenite goldsmithing method.

Kursi National Park

Kursi National Park is important to Christians due to its ancient Byzantine monastery and the location of the Miracle of the Swine.

Hilton Beach

In the heart of Tel Aviv, a city known for its vibrant energy and stunning coastline, lies a haven of relaxation and sophistication: Hilton Beach. ...

Luzit Caves

Luzit Caves are a series of bell caves, perched on a flat hill 210 meters above sea level, about a kilometer southeast of Luzit in ...

Need help?

Skip to content