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Interesting view of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, with Jesus weeping over the city.

This distinctive keepsake, a detailed illustration of Jerusalem, is a product of the American Syro-Maronite church, a Roman Catholic sect with roots in Lebanon. Conceived as a souvenir for the faithful who embarked on the momentous journey of pilgrimage to this holy city, the piece captures the complex tapestry of religious heritage and architectural wonder that is Jerusalem.

The viewpoint is from the Mount of Olives, a site of great significance in Christian tradition. It depicts Jesus weeping over the city, a poignant scene from the New Testament reflecting Jerusalem's historical and prophetic significance. This dramatic portrayal lends an emotional depth to the view, capturing the religious reverence associated with this sacred city.

The layout of the city is rendered with meticulous detail, revealing the rich mix of religious landmarks and architectural styles that symbolize Jerusalem's layered history. Christian, Islamic, and Jewish holy sites are all identified, fostering a sense of the religious diversity that is a hallmark of Jerusalem's heritage.

Among these, one can discern the Church of Anastasia on Mt. Calvary, marked as No. 1, which contains the stone where Our Divine Lord was washed before burial. The Holy Sepulchre, marked as No. 2, is where Jews are noted to weep every Friday. The Mosque of Omar, marked as No. 11, is built on the home of Solomon, and Mohamed's Tower, marked as No. 10, is built along the foundation of Solomon's Altar. The House of King David, No. 12, also known as the Tower of Mohamed, is captured with care. No. 8 highlights the Russian Church and No. 4 indicates the Russian Government building. The English Church, marked as No. 5, is shown alongside the German Government building.

Other key locations include the Palace of Pilate (No. 6), the location of the Last Supper; the East Side Walls of Jerusalem and Cemeteries (No. 13); the Gold and Silver Gates (No. 14) where Our Lord was judged and laden with the Cross, also indicating Turkish Barracks; The Cathedral of the Patriarch of the Greek Orthodox (No. 7); the Jewish Synagogue (No. 8); and the home of St. Ann where the Blessed Virgin Mary was born (No. 9). Marked locations also indicate the gate of St. Stephen (No. 15), the Road to Bethlehem and Valley of Josaphat, and the road to Bethany and Nazareth.

This map serves not just as a piece of art, but a visual chronicle and a spiritual memento, capturing the shared reverence for Jerusalem, a city that sits at the crossroads of faith and history. It is a reminder of a journey made, a testament of faith, and a symbol of the universal spiritual draw of this ancient city.

Map currently featured in Osher Library on-line exhibition:

http://usm.maine.edu/maps/exhibition/1/3/sub-/jerusalem-the-holy