The making of Jerusalem's ‘Holy Basin’

Jerusalem's 'Holy Basin,' a geographical zone encompassing the historic Old City and containing sites sacred to Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, has been significantly shaped by Western conservation practices and Romantic landscape perceptions introduced during the 19th century. This study reveals how these imperialist influences, first implemented by the British, have not only altered Jerusalem's urban fabric but also redefined its historic parts' role in modern planning. While the Holy Basin is now central to contemporary political discussions and conflict narratives, this research focuses on its historical development, highlighting the profound impact of Western conservation practices on the city's understanding and integration.

Pullan, W., & Sternberg, M. (2012). The making of Jerusalem’s ‘Holy Basin’. Planning Perspectives, 27(2), 225–248. https://doi.org/10.1080/02665433.2012.646772