Nine Quarters of Jerusalem: A New Biography of the Old City

Nine Quarters of Jerusalem is a book that explores the diverse communities of the Old City of Jerusalem, highlighting their stories, cultures, and historical significance. It discusses the sources of Jerusalem's holiness and the ideas that have shaped its inhabitants' lives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2023
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Original and illuminating ... what a good book this is!


Jonathan Dimbleby, in his captivating work "Nine Quarters of Jerusalem," offers a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant inhabitants of the historic Old City of Jerusalem. The city, renowned for its ancient walls and sacred religious sites, presents a dichotomy where what is visible and what is true often diverge. Maps categorize the Old City into four distinct quarters, yet this division fails to capture the rich tapestry of mixed and diverse communities that thrive within its boundaries. Beyond the bustling crowds and religious fervor of its major landmarks, much of the Old City remains relatively unknown to visitors, its residents overlooked and their stories untold.


In his remarkable book, "Nine Quarters of Jerusalem," Matthew Teller takes readers on a captivating journey through the city's ancient past and political present. Through the voices of the Old City's diverse communities, including Palestinians, Jews, Indians, Africans, Greeks, Armenians, Syriac cultures, Dom Gypsy families, and Sufi mystics, Teller evokes the city's profound depth and cultural richness. The book delves into the sources of Jerusalem's holiness and explores the ideas, often surprisingly secular, that have shaped the lives of its inhabitants within its walls.


"Nine Quarters of Jerusalem" is an enchanting evocation of place, woven through the stories of Jerusalemites themselves. It serves as a testament to the resilience and spirit of a city that has witnessed centuries of history and conflict. By allowing the communities of the Old City to speak for themselves, Teller presents a nuanced and multifaceted portrait of a city that defies easy categorization. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and beauty of Jerusalem, a city that continues to captivate and inspire generations of travelers and scholars alike.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788169196
Edition number: Main