Best books to help understand Jerusalem

I have an interest in how Britain has shaped our world; it has influenced more parts of the world than any other nation, sometimes for the better, but often for the worse. Jerusalem is the most pivotal city in the world, and Britain has played a role in its long history.

I was asked recently to choose five books which would help people understand Jerusalem. This is a difficult task as there are so many. However, here are the five I have chosen. They examine Jerusalem across the ages and from different angles. They look at the history of the city, the inhabitants of the city, and the history of underground Jerusalem, which is just as fascinating as above ground. They are written by those who have lived in the city and those who visit it.

Five Books to Help Understand Jerusalem