Bab Al-Asbat is also called Bab Sittna Maryam because it opens onto the road that leads to the tomb of the Virgin Mary. It was also named Bab Al-Asbat (Lions Gate) due to the images of lions that are carved on both sides of the gate because, according to tradition, Suleiman the Magnificent was told in a dream that he would be killed by lions if he did not strengthen the fortifications of the city. The gate's original L-shaped entrance was removed by the British Mandate Authorities to enable vehicles to reach the Austrian Hospice located along the Via Dolorosa.