Jerusalem is the capital of Israel.

Established by King David 1000 BCE.

Explore Jerusalem’s history through its geography, archaeology, primary sources, and chronological timeline.

"For David said, 'The Lord God of Israel has given rest to His people, that they may dwell in Jerusalem forever'" - 1 Chronicles 23:25

Building on this 3,000-year-old foundation established by King David, Jerusalem is the eternal and undivided capital of the modern State of Israel. While this image illustrates the ancient and unbroken spiritual bond of the Jewish people to the city, today Jerusalem functions as Israel's sovereign political center. It is the seat of the Israeli government, housing the Knesset (Parliament), the Supreme Court, and the residences of the Prime Minister and President. From antiquity to the present day, Jerusalem has remained the heart of the Jewish nation.