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{{Era|Chronicles|AC|ACR|Secret Crusade}}
{{Era|Locations}}{{WP-REAL}}
{{WP-REAL}}
{{Location Infobox
{{WPlocations}}
|name = Jerusalem
{{Location infobox
|image = AC1 Jerusalem.jpg
|name     = Jerusalem
|state =  
|image     = Jerusalem_beam.jpg
|rulers =
|imgdesc  =
|factions = [[Saracens]]<br>[[Assassins]]<br>[[Templars]]
|hidep    =
|date = 19th century BCE
|state     = Ayyubid state
|landmark = [[Dome of the Rock]]<br>[[Al-Aqsa Mosque]]<br>[[Solomon's Temple]]<br>[[Church of the Holy Sepulchre]]<br>[[Jerusalem Tower]]
|rulers   = [[Saracens]]
|flags = Jerusalem crosses
|factions = Saracens<br>[[Crusaders]]<br>[[Assassins]]<br>[[Templars]]
|hideh    =
|founded  =
|date     = Unknown date BCE
|abandoned =
|hidea    =
|landmark = [[Dome of the Rock]]
|flags    = Jerusalem crosses
|targets  = [[Talal]]<br>[[Majd Addin]]<br>[[Robert de Sable]]
}}
}}
'''Jerusalem''' is a city located  between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea, often visited by [[Assassins]] throughout history, and housed an [[Assassins' Bureau]] in the city's Rich District during the High Middle Ages.<ref name="Assassin's Creed">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref>
'''Jerusalem''' is a city in [[Asia|Western Asia]] located in the hills of the {{Wiki|Judean Mountains}} between the [[Mediterranean Sea]] and the {{Wiki|Dead Sea}}.


Jerusalem was the largest city in the [[Kingdom|Holy Land]] during the 12th century, housing exquisite mosques and cathedrals, denoting the contrast of cultures. Two major Templar structures were found here: the [[Templars|Templar]] Tower, and [[Solomon's Temple]], a structure under the city where [[Second Apple|the Apple]] was kept, inside the [[Ark of the Covenant]].<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
==History==
===Antiquity===
The city was founded sometime in the 19th century BCE. After being conquered several times, it was finally taken by [[David]] for the {{Wiki|Kingdom of Israel (united monarchy)|Kingdom of Israel}}. David's son [[Solomon]] succeeded him and built a [[Solomon's Temple|temple]] which guarded the [[Ark of the Covenant]].<ref name="AC">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref>
 
In 33 CE, after the [[Judaism|Jewish]] preacher [[Jesus of Nazareth]] attracted the [[Order of the Ancients]]' unwanted attention for possessing a [[Shrouds of Eden|Shroud of Eden]], they had him tortured and [[Crucifixion|crucified]] in Jerusalem. The Order then acquired the Shroud, but mere days later, Jesus' disciples repossessed the Shroud and attempted to resurrect him, to no avail.<ref name="Glyphs">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' – [[Glyphs|Glyph]] #7: "Keep On Seeking, And You Will Find"</ref><ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Initiates]]'' – [[Database: Messiah]]</ref>
 
===Middle Ages===
====Muslim conquest====
From at least 638 CE, Jerusalem has been occupied by numerous [[Islam|Muslim]] [[caliph]]ates, including the {{Wiki|Rashidun Caliphate}}, the [[Umayyad Caliphate]], and the [[Fatimid Caliphate]].<ref>{{WP|Jerusalem}}</ref> In 1096, [[Papacy|Pope]] [[Urban II]] initiated the [[First Crusade]] with the objective of recovering the [[Kingdom|Holy Land]] from Muslim rule, including Jerusalem.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: A Walk Through History (1189-1868)]]''</ref> The [[Crusaders]] [[Siege of Jerusalem (1099)|besieged]] the city in 1099, ending the 450-year Muslim rule and leading to the establishment of the [[Kingdom of Jerusalem]].<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed Encyclopedia]]''</ref> Upon entering Jerusalem, the Crusaders brutally {{Wiki|Massacre of Jerusalem (1099)|massacred}} the Muslim and Jewish occupants of the city,<ref name="ACI">''[[Assassin's Creed: Initiates]]'' – [[Assassin's Creed: Initiates#Timeline|Timeline]]: 1099 – "Siege of Jerusalem"</ref>


==History==
====Crusades====
===Quest for the Chalice===
In the early 12th century, the [[Templars|Templar]] [[Bernard de Clairvaux]] sent nine trusted men to find Solomon's Temple beneath Jerusalem. When these men returned nine years later, he reinvented the Order into a knightly organization. This organization became known as the Knights Templar, allowing the Templars to become public for the first time since their Order's founding.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' – [[Abstergo Files]]: "File.0.02\Hst_Beginning"</ref>
{{main|Quest for the Chalice}}
In 1190, the [[Master Assassin]] [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] visited the city twice. During his first visit, he reported to [[Kadar]], the [[Rafiq]] at the city's [[Assassins' Bureau]] in order to receive information about [[Basilisk]] the Templar [[Grand Master of the Templar Order|Grand Master]], whom Altaïr wanted to confront. Kadar informed Altaïr that the Templar was frequently present in the king's audience, and that the king himself was to host a party tonight. Before Altaïr departed from the Bureau, Kadar also informed him that the city gardens were popular spots for gossip to be exchanged.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles">''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]''</ref>


[[File:Acds_adha.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Concept art of Adha, also known as the Chalice.]]
Jerusalem was the largest city in the Holy Land during the 12th century and housed exquisite mosques and cathedrals, which denoted the contrast of the cultures present. It was under the control of Sultan [[Saladin]] and his [[Saracens|Saracen]] army during the [[Third Crusade]], while the Crusaders under King [[Richard I of England|Richard I]] were vying heavily to take control of the holy city.<ref name="AC" />
After traversing the rooftops of Jerusalem, Altaïr eventually reached the city gardens. Altaïr [[Eavesdropping|listened in]] to a few conversations, eventually learning of a man named [[Ayman]], who was one of the guests set to attend. The [[citizens]] also spoke of how Ayman was just on the other side of the gardens, and Altaïr immediately began to pursue the guest. He eventually located and confronted Ayman, who informed him that the party was to take place at a villa just north of the gardens.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>


Once arriving at the villa, Altaïr scouted the exterior of the building, and found that the only way in was directly through the front entrance, guarded by several soldiers. Altaïr dealt with these soldiers, and made his way along the villa's rooftops. However, he fell threw an unstable wooden platform, and plummeted down into the villa. A few [[guards]] caught sight of the Assassin, but he quickly dealt with them and met up with one of the King's men, who also happened to be an informant of Kadar.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
In 1190, the Templars led by Lord [[Basilisk]] maintained a strong presence in Jerusalem, from where they searched for the [[Adha|Chalice]], a powerful artifact rumored to be hidden in the [[Temple of Sand]]. The [[Master Assassin]] [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]], tasked with [[Quest for the Chalice|finding]] the Chalice by [[Al Mualim]], traveled to Jerusalem after learning that Basilisk possessed one of the Temple's keys, and met the local [[Assassin bureau]]'s [[Rafiq]], [[Kadar]], who informed him that Basilisk would be attending a party hosted by the king. After [[Interrogation|interrogating]] a man named [[Ayman]], Altaïr discovered that the party would be taking place at [[Lacoeur's villa]] and proceeded to infiltrate the estate, where he confronted Basilisk. Besting the [[Templar leader]] in combat, Altaïr acquired his key and made his escape as the villa's [[Soldier|guards]] were alerted to his presence.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'' – [[The Hidden Party]]</ref>


The informant explained to Altaïr that there was a concealed secret passage for those who needed to exit the building stealthily. The man also told Altaïr that there was an old mechanism up ahead that would reveal the entrance to the secret passage, once four floor panels were pressed simultaneously. After receiving this information, Altaïr and the informant parted ways, and the former continued on into the villa.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
[[File:ACAC - Master of the Tower.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Altaïr facing the Master of the Tower]]
Before Altaïr could resume his quest, he was forced to deal with a group of Templars who had attacked and mortally wounded the Assassin [[Hazad]], stealing his [[map]] that led to the Temple of Sand. Chasing the Templars through Jerusalem, Altaïr eventually confronted them at their [[Jerusalem Tower|tower headquarters]], where he defeated the group's [[Master of the Tower|leader]] and his [[Apprentice of the Tower|apprentice]], reclaiming the stolen map.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'' – [[Kill the Killers]]</ref>


Upon reaching the entrance of the passageway, Altaïr killed the nearby guards, and activated the mechanism by placing wooden crates on each of the four panels. He then made his way inside the secret passage, where he encountered yet another mechanism. Altaïr managed to activate this mechanism by hurling a [[Throwing knives|throwing knife]] at the structure's trigger. After making his way through the secret passage, Altaïr arrived at a stone wall, and triggered the hidden doorway.
Following his journey to the Temple of Sand and the revelation that the Chalice was in fact a woman named [[Adha]], Altaïr raced back to Jerusalem to find her before the Templars. Although he was too late to prevent his enemies from capturing Adha at [[Don Carvaggio's villa]], he soon managed to rescue her after chasing the Templars across the city.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'' – [[The Running Wind]]</ref> The pair then attempted to flee through the sewers, but during their escape, Adha informed Altaïr that the Templars had convinced Al Mualim's second-in-command, [[Harash]], to defect to their cause. Troubled by the news, Altaïr set off to [[Alep]] to deal with Harash while Adha headed to [[Tyre]], from where the pair planned to leave the [[Levant]] and sail across the [[Mediterranean Sea]].<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'' – [[The Chalice]]</ref>


Emerging from the darkness of the passageway, the Assassin caught sight of the man he sought, Basilisk. Upon seeing Altaïr, Basilisk viewed him as a challenge, and readied himself for a duel with the Assassin. However, Altaïr did not want to fight the Templar, and only wished to obtain the key he held. Altaïr managed to fend off Basilisk's attacks, and then climbed onto his back and stole the key wrapped around his neck. The Assassin then fled from the villa, while Basilisk called desperately for guards.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
By 1191, both the Assassins and Templars had learned that an [[Apple of Eden 2|Apple of Eden]] was hidden within a [[Jerusalem Vault|vault]] beneath the remains of Solomon's Temple and aimed to retrieve the artifact. A group of Templars led by their [[Grand Master of the Templar Order|Grand Master]] [[Robert de Sablé]] and a team of Assassins composed of Altaïr and the brothers [[Malik Al-Sayf|Malik]] and [[Kadar Al-Sayf]] infiltrated the vault at the same time,<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' – [[Acquisition]]</ref> and the resulting conflict led to Kadar's death and the severe wounding of Malik's arm. However, Malik was able to retrieve the Apple and bring it back to the [[Levantine Brotherhood of Assassins|Levantine Assassins]]' headquarters in [[Masyaf]].<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' – [[Failure]]</ref>


[[File:Impale2.jpg|thumb|213px|left|Altaïr kills a Templar knight.]]
[[File:Robert Assassination I 5.png|thumb|250px|Altaïr waiting to assassinate Robert at Majd Addin's funeral]]
After fleeing from the villa, Altaïr made his way back to the Assassins' Bureau, where he encountered Templars on the verge of assassinating Kadar. Altaïr managed to save the Rafiq, and he told Altaïr of a map that detailed the way to the [[Temple of the Sand]], which the Templars had just taken by force. Kadar also informed the Assassin that the guards were set to bring the map to a tall tower in the city, and with this, Altaïr left the Bureau and set off to search the city.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
Throughout the rest of the year, in order to redeem himself for his failure at Solomon's Temple,<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' – [[Knowledge (Masun)]]</ref> Altaïr [[Hunt for the Nine|hunted down]] several [[Levantine Rite of the Templar Order|clandestine Templars]] who worked inside Jerusalem.<ref name="AC" /> He did so with the help of Malik, who had become the Rafiq of the city's Assassin bureau. Among these Templars was [[Talal]], a [[Slavery|slave]] trader,<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' – [[Assassination (Talal)]]</ref> and [[Majd Addin]], the regent of Jerusalem in Saladin's absence.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' – [[Assassination (Majd Addin)]]</ref> Ultimately, Altaïr tried to assassinate Robert de Sablé while he attended Majd Addin's funeral, but was deceived by a decoy: [[Maria Thorpe]]. After she revealed Robert's true plan, Altaïr spared Maria's life and left Jerusalem.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' – [[Assassination (Robert de Sablé)]]</ref>


Once he had located the men carrying the map, Altaïr listened to them conversing from a position on the rooftops. The men decided to give the map to the fastest among them, who then began to make his way to the tower. Altaïr chased the guard along the rooftops to the tower, but the guard proved too quick, and made his way inside of the heavily guarded military compound next to the tower before Altaïr could intercept him. The knight alerted the guards of the Assassin's presence, but Altaïr stealthily made his way into the compound from the back. However, a few [[Crossbowmen|crossbowmen]] spotted him, and the knight was able to deliver the map to the tower. Even though the knight had delivered the map, Altaïr still managed to kill the knight, and dispatch the remaining guards. Once inside of the tower, the Assassin confronted the [[Master of the Tower|master of the tower]].<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
When Altaïr, who by 1257 had become the [[Mentor]] of the Levantine Assassins, dispersed the Assassin Order from Masyaf,<ref name="ACTSC">''[[Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade]]''</ref> they shifted their primary presence in the [[Levant]] to Jerusalem, working in secret.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' – [[Mediterranean Defense#Jerusalem|Mediterranean Defense: "Brokers Of Peace, Part I"]]</ref>


[[File:ACMasterTower.jpg|thumb|213px|right|Altaïr's initial meeting with the master of the tower.]]
===Renaissance===
The master of the tower was impressed with Altaïr's skills, and offered him a chance to join their ranks; however, Altaïr refused, and the master left his men to kill the Assassin, hoping to change his mind. After killing the guards, Altaïr confronted the master, who again asked him if he would join their ranks, to which Altaïr declined yet again. Disappointed in the Assassin, the master reluctantly dueled Altaïr in a sword fight. Unable to defeat the Assassin, the master ran outside of the balcony, and ordered more of his men to attack Altaïr.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
By the time that the [[Renaissance]] had begun spreading throughout Europe, the [[Mamluks]] ruled over Jerusalem. Unlike the Saracens, the Mamluks directly opposed the Assassins and attempted to erase their presence from the holy city.<ref name="Brokers of Peace">''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' – [[Mediterranean Defense#Jerusalem|Mediterranean Defense: "Brokers Of Peace, Part II"]]</ref>


Altaïr dealt with the guards, and pursued the master, scaling the tower's intricate structure. Upon finding himself in the tower's dungeon filled with prisoners, Altaïr was greeted by the [[The Master's Student|master's disciple]], who mocked the Assassin, and engaged him in a sword fight. Altaïr fought intensely with the student, but eventually overcame him and his fellow Templars. The Assassin then made his way through a series of obstacles, and eventually met up with the master, who he once again engaged in a sword fight.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
In 1511, the Mamluks arrested the Levantine Assassins' [[Assassin leader|leader]] [[Mujir]] in order to intimidate them, but their attempt failed when Mujir was rescued by a group of [[Ottoman Brotherhood of Assassins|Ottoman Assassins]] sent from Constantinople by [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]], the Mentor of the [[Italian Brotherhood of Assassins|Italian Brotherhood]].<ref name="Brokers of Peace"/> With help from the Ottoman Assassins, Jerusalem eventually came under strong Assassin control and flourished as a result.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' – [[Mediterranean Defense]]</ref>


After another brief duel with Altaïr, the master fled in an attempt to save his life. Altaïr pursued the master, and was briefly hindered by a trap set by him, but finally confronted him in a room where the map was being held. The two had a short conversation, before engaging in a fierce duel. The Assassin ultimately overpowered the master, however, and retrieved the map. Now possessing the map he needed, the Assassin left for the Temple of the Sand.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles"/>
===Modern times===
In 2012, part of the city functioned as a simulated training location for the [[Assassin's Creed: Revelations|second stage]] of the [[Animi Training Program]], included within a [[Mediterranean Traveler Map Pack|system update]]. The simulation depicted the [[Dome of the Rock]] and its surrounding area, which, aside from the occasional building, largely consisted of tents and market stalls that sold various goods and produce. Decorative archways were a common sight. Jerusalem, like most of the simulated locations in the first and second stage, had two aesthetic variations; as such, it could be utilized during the day or at dusk.<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'' – [[Multiplayer/ACR|Multiplayer]]</ref>


===Search for the Apple===
In 2020, a tablet was unearthed in Jerusalem bearing [[Isu script]]. A picture of the stone was sent to the Assassin [[Antony Henry]], a linguist who had discovered a way to translate one of the Isu dialects into English. With this knowledge, he translated the text and found that it was a mournful Isu poem, before sending the information in a digital folder to [[Layla Hassan]] as she relived the [[Genetic memory|genetic memories]] of the [[Vikings|Viking]] [[Eivor Varinsdottir]].<ref>''[[Assassin's Creed: Valhalla]]'' – [[Layla Hassan's personal files#SecureShare|SecureShare: "PRE_trslt_Jerusalem.odt <v. 1 by ahenry>"]]</ref>
{{main|Search for the Apple}}
{{quote|The Master believes the Templars have found something beneath the temple mountain.|Altaïr to [[Kadar Al-Sayf]] during their mission.|Assassin's Creed}}
In 1191, the [[Mentor]] of the [[Levantine Assassins]], [[Rashid ad-Din Sinan]], tasked Altaïr, [[Malik Al-Sayf]], and his younger brother, [[Kadar Al-Sayf]], with the retrieval of an unidentified object at Solomon's Temple. The three Assassins were sent to Solomon's Temple underneath the [[Dome of the Rock]] in order to acquire an object that the Templars believed was of value. During their journey through the site, the three Assassins encountered an elderly man who was working. Altaïr assassinated the innocent man, despite Malik's protests and his violation of the first tenant of [[The Creed]], stating that it did not matter how their mission was completed, just that it was successful.<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>


[[File:Altaïr & Robert 4.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Robert thwarting Altaïr's attempt to take his life.]]
==Districts==
Following this path, the three Assassins eventually came to a ledge overlooking a large room with a golden tomb inside of it, which Malik and Kadar believed was the Ark of the Covenant. This brief discussion was ended when the Assassins noticed [[Crusaders|Crusader]] soldiers enter the room, and among them was [[Robert de Sable]], the Grand Master of the Templars. Seeing it as a chance to kill their nemesis, Altaïr decided to assassinate Robert, despite going against the second tenant of the Creed and Malik's protests. Altaïr then climbed down a ladder and approached the Templar Grand Master, and attempted to take his life with his [[Hidden Blade|hidden blade]].<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
===Poor District===
[[File:Majd Assassination 3.png|thumb|250px|left|Majd Addin presiding over an execution in the Poor District]]
The Poor District of Jerusalem was the smallest of the city, with a large amount of alleyways and low buildings. Guards were fairly spread across the area, while the traffic moving through the streets was relatively clear.<ref name="AC"/>


However, Robert seized Altaïr's hand, and stopped his blade before it could kill him, telling that he did not understand his mission, or his overall work as an Assassin even. He then told Altaïr to inform his master that the [[Kingdom|Holy Land]] was lost to him, and that Al Mualim should flee while he has the chance. After this threat, Robert threw Altaïr through an exit, which caused rubble and boulders to collapse and block his passageway back. After this, Altaïr heard Robert call for his men to kill the Assassins, which meant Altaïr had compromised the Order, breaking the third and final tenant of the Creed. Unable to journey back to aid his fellow Assassins, Altaïr left for [[Masyaf]] to report his failure to Al Mualim.<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
The main features of the district included a mosque, a southernmost church, and a synagogue. These were all places that were generally alive with activity and provided a good source for information, which was valuable for Altaïr during his assassination tasks.<ref name="AC"/>


===Hunt for the Nine===
It was in this district that Altaïr tracked his target, Majd Addin, to an execution that he was performing in its eastern side. This section contained a platform that was set against the rocky outcrop and walls of the [[Dome of the Rock]], along with several high buildings that overlooked the area.<ref name="AC"/>
[[File:Hunt_list.png|thumb|250px|Al Mualim presenting Altaïr with his new quest.]]
{{quote|I hold here a list. Nine men adorn it, nine men who need to die.|Al Mualim to Altaïr on his new quest.|Assassin's Creed}}
{{main|Hunt for the Nine}}
Altaïr returned to the city in 1191, on orders [[Hunt for the Nine|to kill nine men]] for his failure at Solomon's Temple and violation of the Creed. The third target in Altaïr's quest for redemption was in Jerusalem, where he was sent to assassinate [[Talal]], an infamous slave trader in Jerusalem, who resided in the Rich District of the city within his slave complex.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" />


After collecting information in the city through an [[Investigation|investigation]], Altaïr infiltrated the slave complex, encountering captive slaves calling for his help. Upon catching sight of one of Talal's guards, Altaïr called out to Talal, calling him a slaver and telling him that he was imprisoning innocents. Talal replied to Altaïr's comments by claiming that he was not a slaver, and that he was actually helping these citizens by keeping them safe and "''preparing them for the journey that lies ahead.''"<ref name="Assassin's Creed" />
===Middle District===
[[File:ACAltairTalal.JPG|thumb|250px|left|Talal's guards closing in on Altaïr at his slave complex.]]
[[File:AC1 Church of the Holy Sepulchre.png|thumb|250px|The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Middle District]]
Talal then exclaimed that he made a mistake in allowing Altaïr into his complex, and that he still would not understand the true meaning of his actions. After their brief discussion, Talal opened the gate and let Altaïr into his complex, and ordered his guards to kill the Assassin. However, Altaïr overpowered his opponents, and began to pursue a fleeing Talal. After a lengthy chase, Altaïr assassinated Talal in the city streets, ending the slaver's oppression. In his final words, the slave trader informed Altaïr of the strong brotherhood he belonged to, and gave a warning to the Assassin, claiming that he would soon see the irony of his deed.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" />
The Middle District was a medium-sized district that was fairly spaced out with guards and civilians. The most significant landmarks in the district included the hospital and guard tower, situated near to the edge of the district, and the [[Church of the Holy Sepulchre]], located in the bottom half of the district.<ref name="AC"/>


Several weeks later in 1191, Altaïr once again visited the city, this time to slay the tyrannical regent of Jerusalem, [[Majd Addin]], the sixth of his nine targets. Majd was a corrupt ruler, all the while being a sadistic and unlawful executioner. After completing an investigation about the corrupted regent, Altaïr reported back to Malik Al-Sayf, the Rafiq now present in the city's Assassins' Bureau. After receiving permission to carry out his assassination, Altaïr departed for an execution Majd had organized, where one of his fellow Assassins was set to be executed.<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
Founded around 326 CE by Queen Helena, the church was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times during the Crusaders' occupation of Jerusalem in the 12th century. This district was also were the funeral of Majd Addin was held, in an area just behind the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Here, Altaïr attempted the eliminate the Grand Master of the Templar Order, Robert de Sablé, but instead discovered he had been replaced by Maria Thorpe as a decoy.<ref name="AC"/>


[[File:ACMajdSpeech.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Majd Addin speaking to the crowd at the execution.]]
===Rich District===
Altaïr was instructed to assassinate Majd, but also to let Malik's men liberate their fellow Assassin who had been captured and was set to be executed. After making his way to the Poor District where the execution was being held, Altaïr listened as Majd talked extensively about each person and their supposed crimes. However, Altaïr rushed up onto the stage which Majd was standing on, and assassinated the corrupt ruler, preventing the death of his fellow Assassin as well. In his last conversation, Majd told the Assassin of how he felt like a god, feared and omnipotent, while at executions, standing in front of the cheering public.<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
The Rich District was easily the largest of the districts, dominating the city. Given its size, guards and civilians populated much of the area. The buildings were relatively high, with a number of climbable viewpoints.<ref name="AC"/>


For his ninth and final target, Altaïr was tasked with the assassination of the Templar Grand Master and nemesis of the Assassins, Robert de Sable. For this assassination, Altaïr headed to Jerusalem, where he first confronted Robert that same year.<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
[[File:Templemountmain2.png|thumb|250px|left|The Temple Mount in the Rich District]]
Several notable landmarks included the district's mosque, the markets that lined the border between the Jewish and Muslim quarters of the district, and [[Saint Anne's Church]]. However, the most prominent landmark in the district – and probably the entire city – was the Dome of the Rock.<ref name="AC"/>


Like any other assassination, Altaïr investigated his target, and learned Robert was to attend the funeral of Majd Addin to pay his respects. Altaïr made his way to the funeral, and became [[Blend|one with the crowd]] and listened to the priest speak about the late ruler. However, just after the priest finished his speech, Robert stepped forward and whispered into the priest's ear. Immediately after this, the priest spoke again, but this time, he spoke angrily of Majd's killer being right in the crowd. The Crusader soldiers who had accompanied Robert moved close to the crowd, and the priest pointed at Altaïr and shouted to the soldiers to grab him so that "''God's justice might be done!''"<ref name="Assassin's Creed"/>
Completed in 691 CE, the Dome of the Rock was situated atop the [[Temple Mount]], and was the one of the holiest sites in the [[Islam]]ic faith. Underneath the Temple Mount was the ancient temple of King Solomon, where the Ark of the Covenant was located, along with the Apple of Eden recovered by Altaïr and the brothers Malik and Kadar Al-Sayf.<ref name="AC"/>


[[File:Maria_altair.jpg|thumb|232px|left|Altaïr with Robert's decoy, Maria Thorpe.]]
Robert, the soldiers, and several guards attacked the Assassin, but Altaïr proved to be stronger, defeating all of them, until he was just up against Robert. Altaïr fought aggressively with Robert, and eventually bested the Templar. However, upon removing his helmet, Altaïr revealed Robert to actually be [[Maria Thorpe]], the latter's assistant. Altaïr talked with Maria, who explained that Robert had left her as a decoy, and he now rode for [[Arsuf]] in an attempt to unite the Crusaders and [[Saracens]] against the Assassins. After this discussion, Altaïr spared Maria, stating that she was not his target, and that he therefore did not have to take her life. With the end of this conversation, Altaïr left the funeral and headed for the Assassins' Bureau to discuss things with Malik.<ref name="Assassin's Creed" />
{{-}}
==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery captionalign="center" orientation="none" position="center">
<gallery captionalign="center" position="center" widths="180">
Jerusalem Rich District.png|The Rich District of Jerusalem.
AC1 Jerusalem - Concept Art.jpg|Concept art of Jerusalem
Jerusalem Middle District.png|The Middle District of Jerusalem.
A Public Execution.jpg|Concept art of Jerusalem's poor district
Jerusalem Poor District.png|The Poor District of Jerusalem.
AC1 Jerusalem Shop - Concept Art.jpg|Concept art of the Assassins' bureau in Jerusalem
Ac-jerusalem1.jpg|A painting of the city.
AC1 Jerusalem Vendor - Concept Art.jpg|Concept art of a vendor in Jerusalem
Ac-jerusalem4.jpg|Concept art of the Assassins' Bureau in Jerusalem.
AC1 Map Jerusalem Old.png|A map of Jerusalem
AssassinsCreed_Dx10 2011-05-29 13-08-41-73.jpg|Altaïr looking out over the city from Solomon's Temple.
AC1 Map Jerusalem.png|Animus map of Jerusalem
Solomonjerusalemview.png|Altaïr looking out over the city from Solomon's Temple
AC1 Jerusalem Kingdom.png|A view of the city and a [[Flag|Jerusalem cross]]
ACR MTMP - Jerusalem.jpg|A view of Jerusalem with the Dome of the Rock in the background
</gallery>
</gallery>
==Appearances==
*''[[Assassin's Creed]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]''
*''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'' {{Io|painting}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade]]''
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]''
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Initiates]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Unity]]'' {{Mdat}}
*[[Assassin's Creed (film)|''Assassin's Creed'' film]] {{Io|painting}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Valhalla]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Shared History]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Assassin's Creed: Mirage]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Valley of Memory]]'' {{Mo|"al-Quds"}}


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{Scroll box|content={{Reflist|2}}}}
 
{{ACAC}}
{{AC}}
{{AC}}
{{ACAC}}
[[Category:Levant]]
[[Category:Jerusalem]]
[[Category:Animi virtual locations]]
[[Category:Secondary stage locations]]
[[Category:Mediterranean]]
[[Category:Capital cities]]
[[Category:Cities in Ancient Rome]]
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Latest revision as of 16:26, 11 May 2026

Jerusalem is a city in Western Asia located in the hills of the Judean Mountains between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea.

History[edit | edit source]

Antiquity[edit | edit source]

The city was founded sometime in the 19th century BCE. After being conquered several times, it was finally taken by David for the Kingdom of Israel. David's son Solomon succeeded him and built a temple which guarded the Ark of the Covenant.[1]

In 33 CE, after the Jewish preacher Jesus of Nazareth attracted the Order of the Ancients' unwanted attention for possessing a Shroud of Eden, they had him tortured and crucified in Jerusalem. The Order then acquired the Shroud, but mere days later, Jesus' disciples repossessed the Shroud and attempted to resurrect him, to no avail.[2][3]

Middle Ages[edit | edit source]

Muslim conquest[edit | edit source]

From at least 638 CE, Jerusalem has been occupied by numerous Muslim caliphates, including the Rashidun Caliphate, the Umayyad Caliphate, and the Fatimid Caliphate.[4] In 1096, Pope Urban II initiated the First Crusade with the objective of recovering the Holy Land from Muslim rule, including Jerusalem.[5] The Crusaders besieged the city in 1099, ending the 450-year Muslim rule and leading to the establishment of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.[6] Upon entering Jerusalem, the Crusaders brutally massacred the Muslim and Jewish occupants of the city,[7]

Crusades[edit | edit source]

In the early 12th century, the Templar Bernard de Clairvaux sent nine trusted men to find Solomon's Temple beneath Jerusalem. When these men returned nine years later, he reinvented the Order into a knightly organization. This organization became known as the Knights Templar, allowing the Templars to become public for the first time since their Order's founding.[8]

Jerusalem was the largest city in the Holy Land during the 12th century and housed exquisite mosques and cathedrals, which denoted the contrast of the cultures present. It was under the control of Sultan Saladin and his Saracen army during the Third Crusade, while the Crusaders under King Richard I were vying heavily to take control of the holy city.[1]

In 1190, the Templars led by Lord Basilisk maintained a strong presence in Jerusalem, from where they searched for the Chalice, a powerful artifact rumored to be hidden in the Temple of Sand. The Master Assassin Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad, tasked with finding the Chalice by Al Mualim, traveled to Jerusalem after learning that Basilisk possessed one of the Temple's keys, and met the local Assassin bureau's Rafiq, Kadar, who informed him that Basilisk would be attending a party hosted by the king. After interrogating a man named Ayman, Altaïr discovered that the party would be taking place at Lacoeur's villa and proceeded to infiltrate the estate, where he confronted Basilisk. Besting the Templar leader in combat, Altaïr acquired his key and made his escape as the villa's guards were alerted to his presence.[9]

Altaïr facing the Master of the Tower

Before Altaïr could resume his quest, he was forced to deal with a group of Templars who had attacked and mortally wounded the Assassin Hazad, stealing his map that led to the Temple of Sand. Chasing the Templars through Jerusalem, Altaïr eventually confronted them at their tower headquarters, where he defeated the group's leader and his apprentice, reclaiming the stolen map.[10]

Following his journey to the Temple of Sand and the revelation that the Chalice was in fact a woman named Adha, Altaïr raced back to Jerusalem to find her before the Templars. Although he was too late to prevent his enemies from capturing Adha at Don Carvaggio's villa, he soon managed to rescue her after chasing the Templars across the city.[11] The pair then attempted to flee through the sewers, but during their escape, Adha informed Altaïr that the Templars had convinced Al Mualim's second-in-command, Harash, to defect to their cause. Troubled by the news, Altaïr set off to Alep to deal with Harash while Adha headed to Tyre, from where the pair planned to leave the Levant and sail across the Mediterranean Sea.[12]

By 1191, both the Assassins and Templars had learned that an Apple of Eden was hidden within a vault beneath the remains of Solomon's Temple and aimed to retrieve the artifact. A group of Templars led by their Grand Master Robert de Sablé and a team of Assassins composed of Altaïr and the brothers Malik and Kadar Al-Sayf infiltrated the vault at the same time,[13] and the resulting conflict led to Kadar's death and the severe wounding of Malik's arm. However, Malik was able to retrieve the Apple and bring it back to the Levantine Assassins' headquarters in Masyaf.[14]

Altaïr waiting to assassinate Robert at Majd Addin's funeral

Throughout the rest of the year, in order to redeem himself for his failure at Solomon's Temple,[15] Altaïr hunted down several clandestine Templars who worked inside Jerusalem.[1] He did so with the help of Malik, who had become the Rafiq of the city's Assassin bureau. Among these Templars was Talal, a slave trader,[16] and Majd Addin, the regent of Jerusalem in Saladin's absence.[17] Ultimately, Altaïr tried to assassinate Robert de Sablé while he attended Majd Addin's funeral, but was deceived by a decoy: Maria Thorpe. After she revealed Robert's true plan, Altaïr spared Maria's life and left Jerusalem.[18]

When Altaïr, who by 1257 had become the Mentor of the Levantine Assassins, dispersed the Assassin Order from Masyaf,[19] they shifted their primary presence in the Levant to Jerusalem, working in secret.[20]

Renaissance[edit | edit source]

By the time that the Renaissance had begun spreading throughout Europe, the Mamluks ruled over Jerusalem. Unlike the Saracens, the Mamluks directly opposed the Assassins and attempted to erase their presence from the holy city.[21]

In 1511, the Mamluks arrested the Levantine Assassins' leader Mujir in order to intimidate them, but their attempt failed when Mujir was rescued by a group of Ottoman Assassins sent from Constantinople by Ezio Auditore da Firenze, the Mentor of the Italian Brotherhood.[21] With help from the Ottoman Assassins, Jerusalem eventually came under strong Assassin control and flourished as a result.[22]

Modern times[edit | edit source]

In 2012, part of the city functioned as a simulated training location for the second stage of the Animi Training Program, included within a system update. The simulation depicted the Dome of the Rock and its surrounding area, which, aside from the occasional building, largely consisted of tents and market stalls that sold various goods and produce. Decorative archways were a common sight. Jerusalem, like most of the simulated locations in the first and second stage, had two aesthetic variations; as such, it could be utilized during the day or at dusk.[23]

In 2020, a tablet was unearthed in Jerusalem bearing Isu script. A picture of the stone was sent to the Assassin Antony Henry, a linguist who had discovered a way to translate one of the Isu dialects into English. With this knowledge, he translated the text and found that it was a mournful Isu poem, before sending the information in a digital folder to Layla Hassan as she relived the genetic memories of the Viking Eivor Varinsdottir.[24]

Districts[edit | edit source]

Poor District[edit | edit source]

Majd Addin presiding over an execution in the Poor District

The Poor District of Jerusalem was the smallest of the city, with a large amount of alleyways and low buildings. Guards were fairly spread across the area, while the traffic moving through the streets was relatively clear.[1]

The main features of the district included a mosque, a southernmost church, and a synagogue. These were all places that were generally alive with activity and provided a good source for information, which was valuable for Altaïr during his assassination tasks.[1]

It was in this district that Altaïr tracked his target, Majd Addin, to an execution that he was performing in its eastern side. This section contained a platform that was set against the rocky outcrop and walls of the Dome of the Rock, along with several high buildings that overlooked the area.[1]

Middle District[edit | edit source]

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Middle District

The Middle District was a medium-sized district that was fairly spaced out with guards and civilians. The most significant landmarks in the district included the hospital and guard tower, situated near to the edge of the district, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, located in the bottom half of the district.[1]

Founded around 326 CE by Queen Helena, the church was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times during the Crusaders' occupation of Jerusalem in the 12th century. This district was also were the funeral of Majd Addin was held, in an area just behind the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Here, Altaïr attempted the eliminate the Grand Master of the Templar Order, Robert de Sablé, but instead discovered he had been replaced by Maria Thorpe as a decoy.[1]

Rich District[edit | edit source]

The Rich District was easily the largest of the districts, dominating the city. Given its size, guards and civilians populated much of the area. The buildings were relatively high, with a number of climbable viewpoints.[1]

The Temple Mount in the Rich District

Several notable landmarks included the district's mosque, the markets that lined the border between the Jewish and Muslim quarters of the district, and Saint Anne's Church. However, the most prominent landmark in the district – and probably the entire city – was the Dome of the Rock.[1]

Completed in 691 CE, the Dome of the Rock was situated atop the Temple Mount, and was the one of the holiest sites in the Islamic faith. Underneath the Temple Mount was the ancient temple of King Solomon, where the Ark of the Covenant was located, along with the Apple of Eden recovered by Altaïr and the brothers Malik and Kadar Al-Sayf.[1]

Gallery[edit | edit source]

  • Concept art of Jerusalem
    Concept art of Jerusalem
  • Concept art of Jerusalem's poor district
    Concept art of Jerusalem's poor district
  • Concept art of the Assassins' bureau in Jerusalem
    Concept art of the Assassins' bureau in Jerusalem
  • Concept art of a vendor in Jerusalem
    Concept art of a vendor in Jerusalem
  • A map of Jerusalem
    A map of Jerusalem
  • Animus map of Jerusalem
    Animus map of Jerusalem
  • Altaïr looking out over the city from Solomon's Temple
    Altaïr looking out over the city from Solomon's Temple
  • A view of the city and a Jerusalem cross
    A view of the city and a Jerusalem cross
  • A view of Jerusalem with the Dome of the Rock in the background
    A view of Jerusalem with the Dome of the Rock in the background

Appearances[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 Assassin's Creed
  2. ↑ Assassin's Creed II – Glyph #7: "Keep On Seeking, And You Will Find"
  3. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Initiates – Database: Messiah
  4. ↑ Jerusalem on Wikipedia
  5. ↑ Assassin's Creed: A Walk Through History (1189-1868)
  6. ↑ Assassin's Creed Encyclopedia
  7. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Initiates – Timeline: 1099 – "Siege of Jerusalem"
  8. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Revelations – Abstergo Files: "File.0.02\Hst_Beginning"
  9. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles – The Hidden Party
  10. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles – Kill the Killers
  11. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles – The Running Wind
  12. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles – The Chalice
  13. ↑ Assassin's Creed – Acquisition
  14. ↑ Assassin's Creed – Failure
  15. ↑ Assassin's Creed – Knowledge (Masun)
  16. ↑ Assassin's Creed – Assassination (Talal)
  17. ↑ Assassin's Creed – Assassination (Majd Addin)
  18. ↑ Assassin's Creed – Assassination (Robert de Sablé)
  19. ↑ Assassin's Creed: The Secret Crusade
  20. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Revelations – Mediterranean Defense: "Brokers Of Peace, Part I"
  21. ↑ 21.0 21.1 Assassin's Creed: Revelations – Mediterranean Defense: "Brokers Of Peace, Part II"
  22. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Revelations – Mediterranean Defense
  23. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Revelations – Multiplayer
  24. ↑ Assassin's Creed: Valhalla – SecureShare: "PRE_trslt_Jerusalem.odt <v. 1 by ahenry>"

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