Jerusalem is a city with a rich history spanning thousands of years, full of diverse cultures and religious significance. It has experienced numerous conquests, destructions, and reconstructions throughout its long history. This city holds great importance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. But what if we told you that there is a hidden layer of Jerusalem that most people don’t know about? A layer that reveals the secrets of ancient Jerusalem, the city that King David founded and made his capital.
That layer is the City of David, the original site of Jerusalem that lies outside the walls of the Old City. The City of David is a fascinating archaeological park that offers a glimpse into the life and times of the biblical kings, prophets, and heroes. It is a place where you can walk through ancient tunnels, see ancient water systems, and discover ancient treasures. It is a place where you can experience the stories of the Bible come to life.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the City of David and show you how it reveals the secrets of ancient Jerusalem. We will explore the history, the significance, and the attractions of the City of David. We will also give you some practical tips on how to plan your City of David tour and make the most of your experience. Whether you are a history buff, a religious pilgrim, or a curious traveler, the City of David is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to understand the roots of Jerusalem and its people.
The History of the City of David
The City of David is the oldest part of Jerusalem, dating back to the Bronze Age. It was here that King David captured the city from the Jebusites and established his royal palace and the capital of his united kingdom of Israel and Judah. It was also here that King Solomon built the first Temple on Mount Moriah, the holiest site in Judaism.
The City of David witnessed many events and changes throughout the history of Jerusalem, from the Babylonian destruction of the first Temple to the rebuilding of the second Temple by the Persians, to the Roman siege and destruction of the second Temple, to the Byzantine, Muslim, Crusader, Mamluk, Ottoman, and British periods. Each of these civilizations left their mark on the city, creating a rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Today, the City of David is an active archaeological site, where discoveries are constantly being made. The City of David reveals the secrets of ancient Jerusalem and invites visitors to explore its history, significance, and attractions.
The Attractions of the City of David
The City of David offers a variety of attractions for visitors who want to explore the ancient and biblical history of Jerusalem. Some of the main attractions are:
The Large Stone Structure
This is a massive building that dates back to the 10th century BCE and is believed by some to be the palace of King David. It is located on the summit of the City of David and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Hezekiah’s Tunnel
King Hezekiah constructed an engineering marvel in the 8th century BCE to safeguard the city’s water supply from the Assyrian siege. This 533-meter-long tunnel connects the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam. Visitors can walk through the tunnel by flashlight and experience the water flowing beneath their feet.
The Pool of Siloam
In ancient times, this expansive pool served as a site for both ritual bathing and irrigation. It is notably referenced in the New Testament as the location where Jesus instructed a blind man to wash, resulting in the man’s healing (John 9:7).
The Stepped Street
This is a monumental street that was built by King Herod in the 1st century BCE and leads from the Pool of Siloam to the Temple Mount. It is one of the largest and most impressive structures in the City of David and was used by millions of pilgrims who came to worship at the Temple.
The Herodian Street
This is a street that runs parallel to Stepped Street and is now located underground. It was built by King Herod and was covered by rubble after the Roman destruction of the Temple in 70 CE. It is a unique attraction that allows visitors to walk through history and see the remains of shops, houses, and ritual baths along the street.
The Temple Mount
This site holds great religious significance, being the holiest in Judaism and the third holiest in Islam. It is home to the First and Second Temples, as well as the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Visitors can access the Temple Mount from the City of David through the Southern Wall Excavations, where they can see the remains of the ancient gates, stairs, and walls that surround the Temple.
How to Plan Your Visit to the City of David
If you want to experience the City of David Tour, you need to book your tickets in advance. Visitors have a variety of options to explore, including the water system tour, the night show, or the virtual tour. Additionally, they can join a guided tour or explore the site independently with an audio guide.
The City of David is situated outside the walls of the Old City, near the Dung Gate, and is accessible by public transportation, car, or on foot. The site is open from Sunday to Thursday, from 8 am to 5 pm, and on Friday, from 8 am to 2 pm. It is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.
The City of David Tour is suitable for visitors of all ages and backgrounds, but some parts of the site may be challenging for people with mobility issues or claustrophobia. Please ensure that you wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and also bring along a flashlight and a water bottle. If you plan to walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, you should also bring a change of clothes and shoes, as you will get wet.
Bottom Line
The City of David Tour is a unique opportunity to discover the secrets of ancient Jerusalem and connect with its history, culture, and faith. Don’t miss this chance to visit one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
