 Over the centuries , land close to the Wall became built up . Public access to the Wall was through the Moroccan Quarter , a labyrinth of narrow alleyways . In May 1840 a firman issued by Ibrahim Pasha forbade the Jews to pave the passageway in front of the Wall . It also cautioned them against “ raising their voices and displaying their books there . ” They were , however , allowed “ to pay visits to it as of old . ” 
