
Zedekiah's Cave (Solomon's Quarries) Jerusalem
Explore Zedekiah's Cave, the vast underground limestone quarry beneath Jerusalem's Old City, steeped in history and biblical legend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

Zedekiah's Cave (Solomon's Quarries) Jerusalem
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Zedekiah's Cave, the vast underground limestone quarry beneath Jerusalem's Old City, steeped in history and biblical legend.
"A journey into the earth's embrace, revealing ancient secrets and biblical mysteries."

Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the history and geology. Book in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Solomon's Quarries
Beneath the Old City of Jerusalem
Venture into this massive ancient limestone quarry, a testament to historical construction and ingenuity.

Biblical Connections
Throughout the cave
Explore theories and legends linking this site to biblical events and figures, including the Ark of the Covenant.

Geological Formations
Cave walls
Marvel at the natural limestone formations and the sheer scale of the quarrying operations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Ancient Secrets
Plan Your Underground Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the history and geology. Book in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Bring a Light Jacket
It's cooler underground year-round. :cloud:
Explore Hidden Gems
Beyond the main quarry, discover lesser-known passages and historical markers. :compass:
Hidden Gems in Jerusalem
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
Essential for understanding the history and geology. Book in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Bring a Light Jacket
It's cooler underground year-round. :cloud:
Explore Hidden Gems
Beyond the main quarry, discover lesser-known passages and historical markers. :compass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the immense scale and historical depth of Zedekiah's Cave, often referred to as Solomon's Quarries. The guided tours are highly praised for their informative content, bringing the ancient site to life with tales of biblical significance and quarrying history. Some visitors note the cool temperature and uneven terrain, advising comfortable footwear and a light jacket.
"Issa at the entrance is a treasure in it of itself! Beautiful cave and great infrastructure. Highly recommend for those walking around the city and are looking for a shady but interesting stop."
Carmel Jehuda
"Zedekiah's Cave is just next to the Damascus gate and offers the visitor an amazing underground experience. It’s an ancient quarry most likely from the days of the second temple, used by King Herod for building the temple about 2,000 years ago. It allows walking for 300 meters in magnificent halls with stone pillars, ancient graffiti, a little underground spring and many more unique discoveries. Jerusalem’s old city is full of surprises, and Zedekiah's Cave is most definitely one of the most interesting pieces in the puzzle."
Yaniv Berman
"Jerusalem has so much variety to offer! It even has it's own huge cave, remarkable both in size and beauty, which lies under the Old City.
Only the mouth of Zedekiah's Cave is a natural phenomenon, the interior was carved over a period of several thousand years and is a remnant of the largest quarry in Jerusalem.
This place with its unique acousitics is also home to live music and performances by the best Israeli artists.
Tip: open for free during annual Lights Festival."
Reut Golinsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zedekiah's Cave is located beneath the Old City of Jerusalem, near the Damascus Gate. You can reach it by walking from most central Jerusalem locations or by taking public transport to the Damascus Gate area. Taxis are also readily available. :bus: :taxi:
Yes, the closest public transport hub is the Damascus Gate, which is served by numerous bus lines. From there, it's a short walk to the cave entrance. :bus:
The entrance is often described as being near the Damascus Gate. Look for signs or ask locals for directions to 'Solomon's Quarries' or 'Zedekiah's Cave'. :map:
Driving directly to the cave is not recommended due to limited parking and pedestrian zones in the Old City. It's best to park outside the Old City walls and walk or take public transport. :car: :no_entry:
Absolutely! The cave is situated within the Old City, close to the Damascus Gate, and a short walk from other major sites like the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. :church: :synagogue:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for entry, and it's highly recommended to book them in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as tours can sell out. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. Tours typically run throughout the day. :clock:
Guided tours are generally mandatory and highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical and geological significance of the cave. :microphone:
Ticket prices can vary. It's advisable to check the official ticketing website for current pricing and any potential discounts. :moneybag:
Typically, independent exploration is not permitted. The experience is designed around guided tours to ensure safety and provide historical context. :group:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Zedekiah's Cave, also known as Solomon's Quarries, is a massive ancient limestone quarry. It's famous for its immense size and its potential connections to biblical history, including theories about the Ark of the Covenant.
A typical guided tour of Zedekiah's Cave lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour, allowing ample time to explore the main quarry areas and learn about its history. :timer:
While the cave is vast, some passages can be narrow. If you have severe claustrophobia, it might be challenging. However, the main quarry areas are very open. :thinking_face:
Comfortable walking shoes are a must due to uneven terrain. It's also cooler underground, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended, even in summer. :sneakers: :shirt:
Photography is generally allowed inside Zedekiah's Cave, but always be mindful of your surroundings and follow your guide's instructions. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities inside Zedekiah's Cave itself. You'll need to eat before or after your visit. :forkandknife:
The cave is located near the Damascus Gate, which is surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, from local Israeli dishes to international options. :pizza: :falafel:
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the cave to maintain its preservation. Water is usually permitted. :water_wave:
📸 📸 Photography
The sheer scale of the quarry walls, the unique lighting, and the ancient tool marks offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture the vastness and the textures. :camera:
While there is some lighting, it can be dim in certain areas. A camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful for capturing detailed shots. :low_brightness:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permits. Always check with the site management. :memo:
Wide-angle shots to capture the immensity of the quarry, close-ups of the limestone textures, and shots that play with the natural and artificial lighting are highly effective. :lens:
Using flash is usually permitted, but it's always a good idea to be considerate of other visitors and the historical environment. :zap:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven. The cooler temperature underground is a bonus on hot days. While the cave is vast, keep a close eye on younger children, and consider if they might be sensitive to enclosed spaces. The guided tour format helps keep everyone engaged. :child: :familymanwoman_boy:
✝️ Religious & History Enthusiasts
Engage with the guides to learn about the various theories and historical interpretations. The cave offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient past of Jerusalem and ponder its sacred mysteries. :scroll: :ancient_temple:
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in history and geology without the pressure of planning complex logistics. The shared experience with a tour group can also lead to interesting conversations with fellow travelers. :mandetective: :hikingboot:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Solomon's Quarries
The quarrying activities continued through various historical periods, with evidence of Roman and even later modifications. The cave system was eventually abandoned and largely forgotten, becoming a hidden underground world. Its rediscovery and exploration in more recent times have unveiled its historical significance and sparked numerous theories and legends, particularly those linking it to biblical narratives. The strategic location beneath the city walls also hints at its potential use for defense or secret passages throughout history.
Biblical Legends and Theories
Some researchers and enthusiasts, like Ron Wyatt, have explored these theories extensively, presenting findings and interpretations that suggest the Ark might indeed be located within or connected to Zedekiah's Cave. These claims, while captivating, are often debated within archaeological and religious communities. Regardless of the veracity of these specific legends, the cave's association with such profound biblical narratives adds a layer of mystique and historical intrigue for visitors, making it a site of deep interest for those exploring the religious heritage of Jerusalem.
Exploring the Cave System
The cave's atmosphere is cool and somewhat damp, offering a welcome respite from the Jerusalem heat. As you walk, your guide will point out geological features, explain the quarrying techniques, and share the historical anecdotes and legends associated with the site. The sheer scale of the operation is awe-inspiring, making you ponder the immense effort involved in extracting stone for the city's monumental constructions. It's a journey back in time, offering a unique perspective on the ancient world's engineering prowess. :flashlight: :rock:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit