National Geographic Specials Season 1 Episode 18 Secrets of Jerusalem's Holiest Sites

In this episode of National Geographic Specials, viewers are taken on a journey through the holiest sites in Jerusalem. From the Dome of the Rock to the Western Wall, viewers are given an inside look at the history, significance, and secrets behind these iconic landmarks.

The episode begins with breathtaking aerial shots of the city of Jerusalem, showcasing its diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. Viewers are then taken on a tour of the Dome of the Rock, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The documentary delves into the history of the site, exploring its significance to both Jewish and Muslim faiths. Viewers learn about the rock inside the Dome and hear stories of its holy significance to people of both religions.

Next, the show moves on to the Western Wall, a site that holds immense meaning to Jewish people worldwide. The history of the wall is explored, including the time period of when the wall was destroyed, as well as the fascinating archaeological discoveries made in modern times. The show then goes on to discuss the importance of prayer at the Western Wall, the unique traditions associated with it and what it represents to Jewish faith.

The episode then moves on to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most sacred sites in Christianity. The documentary provides an inside look at the church, exploring its history and significance in Christianity. Viewers learn the various sects of Christianity that have roots here and how it is related to the life of Jesus Christ. The fascinating history and ornate beauty inside the church are on full display, as viewers take a tour of the galleries and religious artifacts on display.

The next stop on the journey is the Old City of Jerusalem, with focuses on the Armenian Quarter. This area is unique in that it is home to a small Armenian population, with the community being in Jerusalem for centuries. In the episode, viewers hear about the struggles this community faced throughout history and the impact it has had on their culture. The episode then moves on to the Jewish Quarter, where viewers explore the rich religious history of the Jewish people in Jerusalem.

The documentary then moves on to the Mount of Olives, one of the most iconic landmarks in Jerusalem. The episode explores the religious significance of the area, from the Jewish cemetery located at the base of the mountain to the Chapel of the Ascension, which is revered by both Christians and Muslims.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit to the City of David, the birthplace of Jerusalem, and the site of the first temple. The episode explores the rich history of the site, from the reign of King David to the biblical story of the prophet Nathan. The episode then explores the archaeological discoveries that have been made in the area, showcasing the ongoing efforts to uncover the secrets of this ancient city.

Overall, National Geographic Specials season 1 episode 18 is an exceptional journey through the holiest sites in Jerusalem. As the show takes viewers on an inside look at these historic landmarks, they are given an opportunity to learn about the history, traditions, and significance of these places. The episode is a unique glimpse into some of the most important religious sites in the world, offering a fascinating insight into the city's history and culture.