The Gates of the Old City of Jerusalem: Sha'ar Tzion

The Zion Gate is also known as “Sha’ar Tzion”(Hebrew "שער ציון") and Bab en-Nawi Dawud in Arabic, this gate was constructed by Suleiman the Magnificent in 1540.

Zion Gate’s Hebrew and English name reflects its proximity to Mount Zion, which is just outside the gate to the south. In fact the Zion gate faces both Mt. Zion and Hebron. Arabs refer to Zion Gate as the David’s gate, since the Tomb of David is located on Mount Zion

Zion Gate’s other Arabic name is “Gate of the Jews,” because of it's proximity to the Jewish Quarter. Historically, when Jerusalem was under Arabic rule, keys to the gate were entrusted to a Jewish member of the community. And in May 13, 1948, just before the last of the British forces left Jerusalem, the Brits presented Mordechai Weingarten, the Jewish community leader, with the key to Zion Gate.

In 1948 intense fighting ensued between Jordan and Israel as the Palmach-Israeli Defense force tried unsuccessfully to gain control of the Jewish Quarter. A stark reminder of the fighting is evidenced till today, evidenced by the pockmarked stones surrounding the gate, resulting from bullet holes and weapons fire.

The Zion Gate remained closed until 1967 Six Day War when Israel regained control of the gate and the old city and reopened it. The surrounding area was cleaned up and the gate now provides access to the old city.

Zion gate is located south of the old city and opens into the Armenian and Jewish Quarter. Though open to both human and vehicular traffic it is difficult for automobiles to maneuver through it, because of its L-shaped passageway. It was purposely built tilted and with sharp angles to make entry into the city difficult when attacked by enemies. When the gate was first reopened it allowed two way traffic, but these days traffic is one way, for cars leaving the city.

Click the following for the list of all of Old Jerusalem's Eight Gates: The Gates of the Old City of Jerusalem