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Hezekiah's Tunnel Jerusalem

4.8
·40 reviews·Jerusalem,

Walk through a 2,700-year-old water tunnel, an ancient engineering marvel that supplied Jerusalem during sieges.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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הבריכה הביזנטית. צילום: קובי הראתי

Hezekiah's Tunnel Jerusalem

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Walk through a 2,700-year-old water tunnel, an ancient engineering marvel that supplied Jerusalem during sieges.

4.8
(40 reviews)

"An unforgettable adventure through a wet, dark, and ancient marvel of engineering!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Water Shoes!

You'll be walking through water, so waterproof shoes or sandals are a must. Bring a change of clothes!

🔦 Bring a Waterproof Flashlight

The tunnel is dark! A good flashlight is essential for navigating and seeing the details.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Waterway

The Ancient Waterway

City of David, Jerusalem

Walk through a 2,700-year-old water tunnel, a marvel of ancient engineering that supplied Jerusalem during sieges.

Reddit
The Siloam Pool Connection

The Siloam Pool Connection

End of Hezekiah's Tunnel

Emerge from the tunnel to discover the historic Siloam Pool, a significant biblical site.

Reddit
Engineering Marvel

Engineering Marvel

Hezekiah's Tunnel

Experience the incredible feat of ancient engineers who dug from both ends, meeting with minimal offset.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for a Wet Adventure

Hezekiah's Tunnel is a water tunnel, so expect to get wet! Wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Many visitors recommend bringing a change of clothes and waterproof bags for electronics. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Timing is Key for Comfort

To avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more comfortable experience in Hezekiah's Tunnel, consider visiting during off-peak hours. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more serene exploration. The tunnel can be narrow and dark, so being prepared for a unique, immersive historical journey is essential. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hezekiah tunnel #fypシ゚viral #history #christianity #tiktokafrica #tikokghana #christiantiktok #tiktokamerica #viral #everyone #christian #fyp #fypage #LearnOnTikTok #tiktok #all #foryoupage #learnwithtiktok #jesus #jesuslovesyou #jesuschrist
@onlyonegod27
54.9K likes • 1.3M views

🥾 Wear Water Shoes!

You'll be walking through water, so waterproof shoes or sandals are a must. Bring a change of clothes! Instagram

🔦 Bring a Waterproof Flashlight

The tunnel is dark! A good flashlight is essential for navigating and seeing the details. TikTok

Israel 🇮🇱 Tour 2017 - Siloam Tunnel/Hezekiah's Tunnel in Jerusalem wearing @trueandnobleapparel ~ I squealed at the opportunity to experience the wet option of the famous Hezekiah's tunnel and apart from relishing every second of the experience where we sung worship songs whilst moving along the dark tunnel and praising the amazing God of Israel and then stopping in the middle to pray one by one ...
rachael_brownbabe
860 likes • 0 views
Que lugar incrível! O Túnel de Ezequias é um aqueduto que foi escavado em uma rocha sólida, na cidade de Jerusalém, a quase 3 mil anos atrás. É uma das grandes proezas da engenharia da antiguidade. Apaixonados por esse lugar 🤩 Conselho: faça essa viagem! ❤️
marialice_amorim
124 likes • 0 views

📱 Protect Your Phone

Use a waterproof case or bag for your phone and other electronics. Water levels can vary. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot in advance, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment. Reddit

reddit.com

The three millennia old tunnels under ancient Jerusalem, Israel

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Water Shoes!

You'll be walking through water, so waterproof shoes or sandals are a must. Bring a change of clothes! Instagram

🔦 Bring a Waterproof Flashlight

The tunnel is dark! A good flashlight is essential for navigating and seeing the details. TikTok

📱 Protect Your Phone

Use a waterproof case or bag for your phone and other electronics. Water levels can vary. Instagram

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot in advance, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment. Reddit

💧 Embrace the Wetness

It's a water tunnel! Getting wet is part of the authentic experience. Enjoy it! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(40 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique and immersive experience of walking through Hezekiah's Tunnel, calling it a historical marvel and an unforgettable adventure. The engineering feat is consistently praised, though some find the water and darkness a bit challenging. It's a must-do for those seeking a tangible connection to ancient Jerusalem.

"Very unique experience. It took about 40 minutes to complete the walk. I went in June and the water was not cold and was knee high in depth. Like everything in Jerusalem, there were way too many people."

Peter Williams

"I was alone and fortunate to be the first person through for the day. The decent to the tunnel through the old city of David was a fun trek. The trip through the tunnel was fantastic. Water was between knee and waist deep. I made it through in 15 minutes, and at the end the lock to the gate was broken (someone overnight had tried to pick it with wood). They had to bring in a grinder to cut the lock! Quite the experience. A must do for anyone who is OK with tight spaces, darkenss, and getting wet. Bring a headlamp as you don't want to reply on your cellphone light."

Joe Greene

"Outstanding experience - both historically and adventurous. You can buy water shoes and lights at the entrance, do not bother to bring them."

AZ

What People Like

Ancient engineering marvel
Immersive historical experience
Unique water adventure

What People Dislike

Can be very wet
Dark and narrow passages

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hezekiah's Tunnel is located within the City of David National Park in Jerusalem. You can reach it by public transport, taxi, or by walking from the Old City. Many guided tours also include this site. Reddit

There is parking available near the City of David entrance, but it can fill up quickly. It's often easier to use public transportation or a taxi. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Dung Gate of the Old City to the City of David, where the tunnel is located. It takes about 15-20 minutes. Reddit

Many visitors opt for guided tours that include Hezekiah's Tunnel, as guides can provide historical context and ensure a smooth experience. Reddit

Due to its nature as an ancient water tunnel, it involves walking through water and uneven terrain, which may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Hezekiah's Tunnel is typically included with admission to the City of David National Park. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official City of David website for current rates. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and avoid long queues. Reddit

The opening hours are generally aligned with the City of David National Park. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can change seasonally. Reddit

Yes, you can explore Hezekiah's Tunnel independently after purchasing your entry ticket to the City of David. However, a guide can enhance the historical understanding. Reddit

There are no strict age restrictions, but the experience involves walking in water and potentially low ceilings, so it's best suited for those who can navigate such conditions. Reddit

🎫 💧 Onsite Experience

The walk through Hezekiah's Tunnel typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the pace and how often you stop to admire the surroundings. Reddit

The water depth can vary, but it's generally ankle to knee-deep. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared to get wet. Instagram

The tunnel is quite dark, and some find it a bit eerie, but it's generally not considered scary. Bringing a flashlight is highly recommended. TikTok

Wear quick-drying clothes and water shoes or sturdy sandals. Bringing a change of clothes and a towel is a good idea. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos, but be sure to protect your camera or phone from water. The low light conditions can make for dramatic shots. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants within the City of David complex and in the surrounding areas of Jerusalem offering various cuisines. Reddit

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the tunnel itself to maintain its historical integrity. There are designated areas for this. Reddit

You can find a range of options, from traditional Israeli snacks and falafel to more formal dining experiences in the nearby neighborhoods. Reddit

The City of David often has a cafe or small eatery on-site where you can grab a quick bite or refreshments. Reddit

Jerusalem is a city with a large Jewish population, so kosher food options are widely available throughout the city, including near the City of David. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unique textures of the rock walls, the play of light and shadow, and the sense of ancient history make for dramatic photos. Capture the water flow and the narrow passages. Instagram

The low light can be challenging. Using a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a night mode can help. A flashlight can also be used to illuminate subjects. TikTok

A waterproof camera or a well-protected smartphone is ideal. Avoid bringing expensive DSLRs unless you have a robust waterproof housing. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in a way that might disturb them. Instagram

Wide-angle shots can capture the scale of the tunnel, while close-ups can highlight the ancient carvings and water flow. Silhouettes against the light at the exit can also be striking. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hezekiah's Tunnel can be an exciting adventure for families, offering a hands-on historical experience. Kids often love the novelty of walking through a real ancient tunnel and splashing in the water. Ensure children wear sturdy, water-friendly shoes and that you have a change of clothes ready for them. Instagram

It's a great way to make history come alive, but be mindful of the dark and narrow passages, which might be a bit intimidating for very young or timid children. Bringing a waterproof bag for electronics is crucial, as little hands might be tempted to splash. Consider the City of David's other attractions which might be more accessible for younger children if the tunnel proves too challenging. Reddit

💧 Adventure Seekers

For those who crave a more immersive and adventurous experience, Hezekiah's Tunnel is a must-do. This isn't just a walk; it's an aquatic journey through ancient history. The thrill of navigating the dark, water-filled passages, knowing you're treading the same path as people thousands of years ago, is unparalleled. TikTok

Embrace the wetness and the challenge. Bring your best waterproof gear, a reliable flashlight, and an adventurous spirit. The minimal offset where the two digging teams met is a fascinating detail to look for, showcasing the precision of ancient engineering. This is an experience that truly engages the senses. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

Hezekiah's Tunnel offers a profound connection to biblical and ancient history. As a vital water source during the First Temple period, its construction is a significant archaeological and historical event. Understanding its strategic importance during times of siege provides a deeper appreciation for the site. Reddit

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and imagine the historical context. Consider joining a guided tour that focuses on the historical and archaeological significance to gain the most comprehensive understanding. The tunnel is a tangible link to the past, offering insights into the lives and challenges of ancient Jerusalem's inhabitants. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Genius of Hezekiah's Tunnel

Hezekiah's Tunnel, also known as the Siloam Tunnel, is a testament to ancient Israelite engineering prowess. Built around 700 BCE during the reign of King Hezekiah, its primary purpose was to secure Jerusalem's water supply in anticipation of an Assyrian siege. The tunnel was ingeniously dug from two ends simultaneously, with teams working towards the middle. Remarkably, they met with an offset of less than two feet, a feat of precision for its time. Reddit

This incredible water system diverted water from the Gihon Spring, located outside the city walls, to the Pool of Siloam within the city. This ensured that Jerusalem would have a vital water source even if the spring was cut off by enemies. The tunnel's construction involved meticulous planning and execution, showcasing advanced knowledge of surveying and rock excavation techniques. Reddit

Today, walking through Hezekiah's Tunnel offers a tangible connection to this ancient history. The experience of wading through the cool water, surrounded by the rough-hewn rock, allows visitors to imagine the challenges and triumphs of those who built and relied on this vital lifeline. It's a journey back in time, highlighting human ingenuity in the face of adversity. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Water Tunnel Experience

Visiting Hezekiah's Tunnel is an adventure that requires a bit of preparation. The most crucial aspect is understanding that it is, in fact, a water tunnel. Visitors will be walking through water that can reach knee-deep, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. Many recommend water shoes, sturdy sandals, or even old sneakers that you don't mind getting wet. Instagram

Beyond footwear, consider bringing a change of clothes, especially if you plan on continuing your explorations in Jerusalem afterward. Waterproof bags or cases for your phone, camera, and any other valuables are also highly advised. The tunnel is dimly lit, so a reliable flashlight or headlamp will greatly enhance your experience and safety. TikTok

While the tunnel is an incredible historical site, it's important to be aware of the conditions. The passages can be narrow, and the ground uneven. However, for those prepared, it's an unforgettable journey that offers a unique perspective on Jerusalem's ancient past. Reddit

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