Damascus Gate is in the form of an "L" - this is to stop attackers from rushing straight through the gate, and into the city. It is built over the remains of a gate dating back to Roman times. The original gate here was built around AD 133-135.
![Damascus Gate from outside, looking south Damascus Gate from outside, looking south](profiles/pics/2008/724236a.jpg)
The gate is used as a major pedestrian entry into the Muslim quarter of the old city. Push carts and tractors also use this gate as a means for access.
![Western tower of Damascus Gate Western tower of Damascus Gate](profiles/pics/2008/724236b.jpg)
This gate is built just south of a hill, and a person must travel down to reach the gate from the outside. Inside the gate, the slope continues to drop down. The gate is flanked by two towers.
![Damascus Gate, from inside the old city Damascus Gate, from inside the old city](profiles/pics/2008/724236c.jpg)
![Inside Damascus Gate Inside Damascus Gate](profiles/pics/2008/655337a.jpg)
![Ceiling of Damascus Gate Ceiling of Damascus Gate](profiles/pics/2008/655337b.jpg)
![Southern exit of Damascus Gate Southern exit of Damascus Gate](profiles/pics/2008/655337c.jpg)