Mount Zion is a hill in Jerusalem, traditionally associated with the site of the ancient fortress of Zion. It is located just outside the walls of the Old City.
In Jewish tradition, dating back to the time of the prophets, the name Zion became closely linked with the idea of a spiritual landmark or guiding point — a symbol of return and hope. Over time, Zion came to represent not only Jerusalem but the entire Promised Land, toward which the Jewish people longed to return after the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE.
Several important religious and historical sites are located on Mount Zion:
Zion Gate
Zion Gate is similar in design to the Jaffa Gate, featuring a sharp 90-degree turn intended to slow down attackers attempting to breach the city.
The gate was built in 1541 during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent.
During the 1948 War of Independence, many residents of the Jewish Quarter of the Old City fled through this gate in an effort to save their lives.
Tomb of King David
According to tradition, the tomb of King David is located on Mount Zion.
The chamber housing the tomb dates back to the Crusader period, when a symbolic monument — a cenotaph — was constructed at this site. The cenotaph, covered with a velvet cloth, bears a carved symbol resembling the fleur-de-lis, associated with French knights.
In the 4th century, a Christian Church of Saint David stood here, which was later destroyed by the Persians.
Upper Room (Room of the Last Supper)
The Upper Room, also known as the Room of the Last Supper, is a chamber located on the upper floor of a building in Jerusalem. It is traditionally believed to be the place where Jesus Christ shared the Last Supper — his final Passover meal — with his disciples.
In Christian tradition, the Upper Room is not only associated with the Last Supper, during which Jesus washed the feet of the twelve apostles, but also with the period that followed, when the apostles gathered here in Jerusalem. It is often regarded as the first Christian church.
According to tradition, several other events described in the New Testament also took place here.
Today, the Upper Room does not belong to any particular religious denomination and is administered by the Israeli authorities. Entry is free and open to all visitors. Since 2014, prayer inside the site has been permitted only in a quiet or whispered manner.