Introduction
The "Visual Basin of the Old City" denotes the upper area of the Kidron Valley (Wadi Naar) spanning across the mountain ridges that overlook the Old City Walls and are visible from them. The Basin's borders run along Mount Scopus on the North, the Mount of Olives from the East, Armon Hanatziv on the South, and the watershed axis on the West. The Kidron Valley is made up of two parts: the upper section starts at Wadi Al-Goz, North of the Old City, and ends at the south-east municipal border of Jerusalem; the lower section extends outside of Jerusalem's city limits and across the Judean Desert and ends at its erosive foothills in the Dead Sea.

 

The Upper Kidron Valley is the subject of this study. The area contains most of Jerusalem's historic landmark sites and many of the holiest sites of the three monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The area's religious, historic and archaeological importance is enhanced by its prominent location, breathtaking landscape panoramas, colorful communities and rapid rate of development. However, increasing modernization and urbanization pressures present a threat to the Upper Kidron Valley's landscape and landmark sites, and subsequently, caution and careful consideration are called for in the planning and development of the area if its unique character is to be preserved and protected.

 

The present study aims to portray the present condition and historic, geographic, social and economic character of the Upper Kidron Valley in order to present a balanced and sustainable policy for the future development and preservation of the area. Additionally, the study aims to create a large database that may serve Jerusalem's municipal planning authorities in the preparation of more detailed plans for the area. This study outlines guiding principles that may be used to develop the Upper Kidron Valley and increase its economic viability in a way that is also conducive to its inherent character. These principles aim to channel the development in the area to its least vulnerable parts in order to limit the damage to its natural treasures and cultural heritage. This study will not focus upon geopolitical issues though the researchers are aware of the area's special significance stemming from its prominent location at the heart of Jerusalem, and subsequently, at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

 

The present study concludes two years of work. The areas local residents were actively engaged and the researchers met with representatives of all of the neighborhoods included in the study: Abu Tur, Jabel Mukaber, Wadi Kadum, Silwan, Ras al-Amud, Wadi Joz, and A-Tur. The research team visited the area and studied the changes it is undergoing firsthand. The interdisciplinary research team included scholars and urban planners, some of whom were Arab and intimately familiar with the area. We extend our warm gratitude to the Arab researchers for introducing the rest of the team members to the living conditions and physical conditions in the neighborhoods situated in the Upper Kidron Valley.