The Municipal Hospital (Al-Baladi) was the main medical institution established by the Ottoman authorities in the city, symbolizing their presence in Jerusalem. Even the neighborhood around it was named the Municipal Hospital neighborhood during the Ottoman period. The attractiveness of the hospital to the Muslim population was partly due to the fear of missionary activities in foreign hospitals.
Why is the building called ‘The Dead Groom’s House’ in Hebrew?
The house was built for a wealthy Christian Arab couple in the 19th century. As one might guess, on the eve of the wedding, the groom died. Since all the guests were already invited, the bride was excited, and the mother was not ready to let go, it was decided to marry the bride to the dead groom! They dressed the groom in wedding clothes, held the wedding, and all the guests and residents of Jerusalem were left shocked and could not calm down from this story for many years. The house stood empty for a long time because of its story, until it turned into the Al-Baladi Hospital.” This is a fascinating story that certainly adds a rich historical layer to the area. If this is part of a spot in Spotix, it could be a compelling feature to attract visitors who are interested in local history and unusual stories.