The Sabil of Sultan Suleiman (سبيل السلطان سليمان) is an Ottoman period water fountain, now defunct, in the Haram as-Sharif Complex. It is located near the Gate of Darkness over a platform that carries the same name; it was endowed in 1541 CE (948 Hijri). The Islamic Heritage Committee in coordination with the Waqf Directorate added an ablution area to it in 1997 CE between the Sabeel's building and the Iwan Sultan Mahmud II.
Sabils, an integral feature of Islamic architecture, are public water fountains constructed to provide free drinking water to passersby, pilgrims and to general public, a charitable act deeply rooted in Islamic traditions of hospitality and benevolence.
Sabil of Sultan Suleyman, also known as Sabil Bab Attim, after one of the gates of the Haram al-Sharif (Temple Mount). It is located immediatly inside the Bab e Shah Faisal (Dark Gate) and faces Iwan of Sultan Mahmud, also known as the Dome of the Prophet’s Lovers. It is a free standing fountain and is fed through an aquaduct.
Sultan Suleiman's reign was marked by extensive architectural projects in Jerusalem, including the construction of multiple sabils to ensure the availability of fresh water throughout the city. These fountains were strategically placed near gates, roads, and public spaces, serving both practical needs and demonstrating the Sultan's dedication to public welfare.
circa 1537 CE
Architecturally, the sabil is positioned on a platform that shares the Sultan's name, indicating the significance of his patronage. The structure features traditional Ottoman design elements, including a prominent mihrab on its southern side, which aligns with the Sabil of Suleiman opposite it. This alignment underscores the sabil's role not only as a source of water but also as a place of ritual purification and reflection.
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The Madain Project is an online archive of Abrahamic History and Archaeology.
Abrahamic History & Archaeology is the study of history and archaeology with respect to the three Abrahamic Faiths without considering the religious and theological aspects. The goal of Abrahamic History is to understand how and why the religious doctrines and behaviours have evlovled and changed over time. Searching for patterns in the evolution of significant cultural events such as the development of farming, the emergence of cities, or the collapse of major civilizations for clues of why and how these have influenced the three major Abrahamic religions.
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