Jerusalem: The Making of a Holy City

(PG) BBC DVD

Historian Simon Sebag Montefiore tells the story of Jerusalem settlers and their search for holiness over the centuries. He has been visiting the city all his life.

The documentary is about the history of the three major religions that have inhabited the holy city at various times from its beginnings: the Jews, the Christians and the Moslems.

Whilst it is a story of religion it is not “religious” as such. It will appeal to the historians, the humanists and military viewers as well.

It is a story of conflict, as most historical documentaries are. The photography is excellent and gives the eerie feeling that it could have been filmed at any time in the history of this great city. Rabbis, Imams, Priests and Ministers jostle with the members of their congregations, the sight-seers and the military. The dress of the local people makes them appear to have stepped out of ancient history.

This is an excellent documentary. The BBC and Simon Sebag Montefiore deserve a pat on the back.

Lyn Housen