Mamluk and Ottoman Jerusalem

Today we discussed the Mamluk Period (1244-1516) as well as the Ottoman Period (1517-1918).  In the Mamluk Period, Jerusalem was economically impoverished, as the population of Jews began to slowly increase.  In addition, during this time, Jerusalem became a key religious center, most notably with the construction of Al-Madrasa al-Ashrafiyya, a Qur'anic school. The Jewish quarter began to grow, and Jerusalem became spiritualized.  In other words, the Temple became a symbol of the path to God. Correpsondingly, the development of the Haram steadily progressed, and there was an intensive building of schools, hospices, and hostels.  HTe architecture during this time was characterized by the typical use of domes, and of black and white geometric designs.  During the Ottoman Period, leader Suleiman "the Magnificent" rebuilt all the walls, including the "Tower of David" and the Damascus Gate.  The Damascus is the largest of the seven gates of Jerusalem.  It was built in order to defend Jerusalem from siege or attack.  Jerusalem was essentially more prosperous under his rule.  Jewish refugees were encouraged to settle in Jerusalem, in order to increase the prosperation that was occurring.  After Suleiman's death, there was a gradual decline in the power and success of Jerusalem, as its inhabitants began to suffer from neglect.   In the 19th century, Jewish settlements begin to form outside the city walls.  More specifically, spanish expulsions in the 15th-16th century lead to immigration to Jerusalem.  This period is significant because it marked the period of tolerance between Muslims, Jews, and Christians.