Palace of the Lady Tunshuq

Islamic landmarks in Jerusalem

The Palace of the Lady Tunshuq is a magnificent and large palace in the Muslim Quarter of Jerusalem. Moreover, the palace centers on fine examples of Jerusalem Mamluk architecture. The palace was built between 1391 and 1392, and according to other versions in 1388, by Lady Tunshuq, daughter of Abdullah al-Musafariya. But it is not really known who that lady was and so, regarding her identity there are several versions. According to one of them, she was the spouse of a Mamluk ruler named Mutfar a-Din.



According to another version, more common these days is that she was a member of the al-Musafariya family that ruled the center of Persia in those years, and just at that time, a war of succession broke out between two brothers. So it is quite possible that Lady Tunshuq, who was a member of the family of rulers; fled to Jerusalem from the horrors of the Civil War; bringing with her vast property. The whole hill on the border between the Muslim Quarter and the Christian Quarter was apparently the property of Lady Tunshuq.

Lady Tunshuq built a magnificent palace in Jerusalem in the middle of a stairway that connects El Wad Rd. with Suk Khan-a-Zeit (“Beit HaBad”). Lady Tonshuk died, probably in 1398, and was buried in a small mausoleum (Turba) across the alley in front of the palace. She dedicated the building to a Scout Order whose center was in the cemetery anyway.

Some More About Palace of the Lady Tunshuq

In the palace, you can see the extensive reception room on the ground floor, with a row of large support pillars in the center. And on the second floor, which can be reached through one of three staircases on the entrance floor, there is a large courtyard, also ceremonial. The palace is not an accepted structure in the Mamluk period in Jerusalem, where houses of worship were usually used only as charitable and religious institutions.

During the Ottoman period, the building was incorporated into a complex built on the initiative of the glorious Suleiman’s wife, Hürrem Sultan (nickname: Haseki Sultan). She instituted a free soup distribution to the Muslim needy. During the Ottoman period, the Saraya House (the Ottoman government building); the Jerusalem Municipality, and a barracks for military and police forces were located on the site.

apt-stamp-white@2x
arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik Haglili, an Israeli native who decided to dedicate his life to share my knowledge about the Holy Land to those that are interested to know more about this amazing piece of land. My career as a private tour guide started at the International School For the Studying of the Holocaust and the rest is history.

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

Tomb of Absalom

The Tomb of Absalom is an ancient, monumental rock-cut tomb in the Kidron Valley in Jerusalem. It's also known as Absalom's Pillar.

Wadi Murabba’at Nature Reserve

The Wadi Murabba’at Nature Reserve, known as the Nahal Darga Nature Reserve is one of the best hikes that runs through the Judaean Desert.

Elisha’s Spring Jericho

Elisha's Spring (Also known as Ein Al Sultan) is a large spring that springs to the east and near Tel Jericho. For more about it ...

Jewish Quarter Tour

In my Jewish Quarter Tour, we would explore the Jewish Quarter and the City of David. Two important locations for any Jew exploring Israel.

Goren Park

Goren Park is a stunning nature reserve offering various activities and attractions. One of the attractions is the view of Montfort Castle.

Israeli Air Force Museum

The Israeli Air Force Museum (or in short the IAF Museum) in the Negev Desert houses hundreds of models of fighter jets that served in ...

Ramparts Walk Jerusalem

The Ramparts Walk is one of Jerusalem's offers visitors an unparalleled view of the city's rich history and culture.

Ruhama Badlands

Ruhama Badlands is a nature reserve in the area of ​​Kibbutz Ruhama in the Negev. In Winter and Springtime is covered with flowers in bloom!

Key Sites in Jerusalem

What are the key sites in Jerusalem you must visit? Well, I compiled the top attractions in Jerusalem when visiting the Holy Land.

The Field of Blood (Monastery of Onophorius)

The Field of Blood (Monastery of Onophorius), also known as Akeldama, is a site in Jerusalem where Judas Iscariot hung himself.

Need help?