The upper entranceway of Qubba al-Nahw (Dome of Grammar), a 13th century building on the southwest corner of the Temple Mount platform
This image shows the main portal to the Qubba al-Nahw or the Madrasa al-Nahw (the dome/school of grammar) which was established in the Ayyubid period. The structure dates from the early 13th century, and was built by al-Malik al-Mu'azzam 'Isa to teach the seven readings of the Qur'an, giving it the name "al-Nahw." The building has gone through several changes, beginning as a open portico topped by domes which included a sabil, or fountain. The arches of the portico were later filled with limestone, leaving a closed building. The portal seen here was added between 1865 and 1889, and is far more intricate than the rest of the structure. Engaged columns flank the doorway in the shape of woven rope, and the capitals above them have a leaf motif also found on the Hagia Sofia.
Photograph created 1977. Photograph processed April 1977. Formerly cataloged as B01.047. No notes written on the slide or index.
