The Miniature of Mescid i Aksa

This small work shows Masjid al-Aqsa.

Masjid al-Aqsa is a very important holy place in Jerusalem. Its name means “the farthest mosque.” For many people, it is a place of deep faith and memory.

This miniature was sent as a gift by the Patriarch of Jerusalem. A patriarch is a senior Christian religious leader. He sent it to mark a special moment: the 25th anniversary of Sultan Abdülhamid coming to the throne.

So this little piece tells us more than one story. It shows a holy place. It also shows respect between Istanbul and Jerusalem, and between different faith leaders of that time.