Ras al-Amud

Basic Information

Type

Neighborhood

Governorate

Jerusalem

Region

Jerusalem

Overview

Ras al-Amud is a Palestinian neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem, located southeast of the Old City on the slope between Silwan to the south and the Mount of Olives to the north. Its name means 'Head of the Pillar,' possibly referring to a prominent column or rock formation. The neighborhood contains significant archaeological remains from the Canaanite period (2200-1900 BCE) and the First Temple period (8th-7th centuries BCE), including a jar handle inscribed with the Hebrew name 'Menachem,' demonstrating the area's antiquity. Byzantine-era monastery ruins have also been found. In 1997, plans for a Jewish settlement in Ras al-Amud provoked international outcry, but construction proceeded despite international objections. The Ma'ale HaZeitim settlement was established in 1991 and expanded over the following decades, while Ma'ale David was built later. These settlements, perched on hillsides overlooking the Palestinian neighborhood, create a constant source of friction and tension. Ras al-Amud's residents face the same building restrictions and service discrimination as other East Jerusalem Palestinians, compounded by the presence of armed settlers in their midst.

Historical Significance

Archaeological finds include Canaanite and First Temple period remains. Site of major settlement controversy since 1997.

Sources and record limitations

Source detail varies by record. Some entries include document and page references; others supply source names only. Check the cited material and the record's limitations before relying on a specific claim.

• Ir Amim
• B'Tselem
• UN OCHA
• ARIJ
• Peace Now
• BADIL Resource Center

Between Silwan and Mount of Olives