Masjid al-Aqsa (Al Aqsa Mosque) refers to the entire tract of elevated land located in the Old City of Jerusalem and presently enclosed within the compound’s walls. Also known as al-Haram al-Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary), it is of tremendous spiritual significance to Muslims and among Islam’s three holiest sites alongside the Sacred Mosques of Mecca (Masjid al-Haram) and Medina (Masjid al-Nabawi).
The site is commonly referred to by non-Muslims as the Temple Mount.
It is worth noting that, contrary to popular misconception, the entirety of the mosque complex–not just the famed golden Dome of the Rock (Qubbat as-Sakhra)–is considered holy.
Presently, the site features a walled compound enclosing numerous mosques, gardens, libraries, fountains, and other structures.
Due to its religious significance to both Muslims and non-Muslims alike, Masjid al-Aqsa has frequently served as a major flashpoint of tension, conflict, and Israeli aggression in recent decades.