Jerusalem, (Hebrew: Yerushalayim; Arabic: Al Quds), one of the most ancient cities in the world and a holy city to Christians, Jews, and Muslims. The western section has been part of Israel since 1949; the eastern portion was part of Jordan until the Six Day War of 1967, when Israel took over the entire city. Few countries, however, recognize Israel's claim to the eastern portion. Jerusalem is Israel's capital but many nations refuse to maintain embassies there, conducting their diplomatic business in Tel Aviv instead.
Jerusalem is holy to Christians primarily because it was the site of numerous events in the life of Jesus Christ, including his crucifixion. Jews revere the city because of its long role as the political and religious capital of the Jews during Old Testament times. To Muslims, Jerusalem is the holiest city of Islam after Mecca and Medina because the city is associated with important events in the life of the prophet Mohammed.
Jerusalem is situated in the Judean Hills of Palestine at an elevation of roughly 2,400 feet (730 m) above sea level. The Mediterranean Sea is some 35 miles (56 km) to the west; the Dead Sea is about 16 miles (26 km) to the east.
Tourists, attracted by Jerusalem's holy sites, are of major importance to the economy of the city. Manufacturing consists mainly of making household furnishings and appliances and such personal items as jewelry, clothing, and shoes. The cutting and polishing of diamonds and the printing and publishing industries are also significant. Many handicraft goods are produced.
Jews make up about three-fourths of Jerusalem's population. Palestinian Arabs account for most of the rest. Hebrew and Arabic are the languages of the city.