To appreciate the magnificence of the Temple complex and later palaces and public buildings, this tour is a must. A row of shops once existed below the Temple Mount, and on the pavement one can see stones toppled from the Mount by the Roman army in 70 C.E. Part of a broad stairway has been reconstructed and part of the original double archway is still visible below Al-Aqsa Mosque. Remains of private homes and businesses from the late Roman and other periods are also visible. This area is a popular venue for bar mitzvah and other celebrations, and is used by non-Orthodox Jews for occasional prayer services. Combination tickets that include other sites can also be purchased.
