Jerusalem - One of the Rarest Pictures on Earth

First, the backstory. Churches, temples and mosques are some of the most amazing works of architecture on the planet. They also symbolize the beliefs, hopes and aspirations of their followers. The Al Aqsa mosque and the Dome of the Rock are located in the Old City of Jerusalem. It is also one of the Holiest places to Islam. Muslims believe it’s the site from which the Prophet Muhammed ascended to heaven. Oh, and one more thing; it sits on the Temple Mount, the site of the 1st Temple - Solomon’s Temple. The reason it may be familiar to you is because it’s part of the modern news cycle. Its domes feature prominently in the landscape of Jerusalem, which is depicted as a city of strife and troubles.

Built in the 7th century, It has been closed to women for many years. In modern times, In order to gain entry, a man will need to prove that they are Muslim by quoting from the Quran, whatever the guides asks them to, in Arabic.

This is a picture of Anna Basan in 1967. She’s not Muslim and is standing in the center of the Al Aqsa mosque.

For a brief period of time women, who were not Muslim, could walk to the mosque and enter the domed structures. Obviously, they were also able to take pictures at the entrance. This is the proof. Anna, among many other things, is an orphan-infant Holocaust survivor who later joined the army as a 16-year old volunteer. If that introduction gives you the feeling that she’s One Tough Cookie, you’ll be right. But, fun fact, throughout her numerous experiences she never weighed more than 100 pounds. At the time of the writing of this post, Anna is still alive and well, and uses her boundless energy to tell stories that defy comparison. She’s a walking piece of history. In an upcoming newsletter I will update you on the book that I’m currently writing that depicts many of these real-life events. Thanks to all those who have subscribed to the Johny Mee website and the Beyond the Sea blog. I will pursue topics that relate to both audiences as we continue our journey - from the Caribbean to the Holy Land. John Q.