On Christy’s birthday, she and I joined a small group to visit the grounds at al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Later that evening we paid a visit to the rooftop restaurant at Notre Dame to toast another trip around the sun for Christy.

Most are familiar with the Dome of the Rock with its iconic architecture and gold-leafed dome. Some may also think that the structure itself is called “al-Aqsa Mosque” but as our guide informed us “al-Aqsa” should be used to refer to the compound as a whole. It is one of the holiest sites in Islam, like Mecca and Medina.

Standing under said dome with its intricate mosaic work. Not pictured is the rock from which, as Islamic tradition has it, the Prophet Muhammed ascended to Heaven to meet the prophets and God. During his encounter with God, Prophet Muhammed haggled down the number of times believers should pray each day from fifty to five. Solid negotiating, that.

Christy walking through the Qibli Mosque, also known as Aqsa Mosque, which is the main prayer hall on the compound, adjacent to the Dome of the Rock.

You will note how the defined prayer spaces on the carpeting, with peaks that point east toward Mecca (the direction in which people pray).

The oldest remaining wall in Qibli Mosque.

My favorite item in the Islamic History Museum, next to Qibli Mosque. The translation is misleading at first reading. The bowl is not intended to confer fright onto a person who drinks from it, but is part of a ritual to help someone overcome their fright.

Christy perambulating through the museum.

Exiting the compound towards the Cotton Merchants’ Gate (Bab al-Qattanin). The Dome of the Rock is just visible in the background on the right, behind the palm tree.

Cheese plate!

The view from the outdoor patio at Notre Dame’s restaurant.

So stoic.

Back in our neighborhood, there was a Cat Block Party!

Okay, okay. I know I wasn’t invited. Later.

Finally, the return of our ol’ friend Aslan to our daily feline free meal program.