Zedekiah’s Cave, or Ma’arat Tzedekiyahu in Hebrew, is a unique and popular attraction in Jerusalem. Located below the Muslim Quarter for five blocks is this vast underground limestone quarry, which has a long and interesting history. Solomon’s Quarries most likely had provided the necessary materials to build the First and Second Temples. Aside from the breathtaking sights throughout Zedekiah’s Cave, many enjoy the many legends that are told, including “Zedekiah’s tears,” a spring located in the back of the cave, when Zedekiah, Jerusalem’s last biblical king, became blinded after witnessing his children’s execution after being captured by the Babylonians. Come and enjoy the spectacular and peaceful site located in Old City Jerusalem.
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Zedekiah’s Cave in the early 20th Century (Source: Wikipedia)
Zedekiah’s Cave, located near the Damascus Gate (also known as the Shaar Shchem) along the city wall in Jerusalem, is one of the largest quarries and man-made caves in Israel. Founded about 2,000 years ago, the underground limestone quarry, or an open-pit mine from which rocks or minerals are extracted, was most likely used by Solomon to build the Jerusalem temple. In 1854, the cave was accidentally rediscovered by James Turner Barclay, an American missionary. As he was walking through the Old City, his dog that was with him noticed a hole in the Old City’s wall and quickly disappeared. Soon after, the Zedekiah’s Cave was rediscovered.
Directly in the opening of the legendary cave is the 200 meters path that leads to “The Freemasons Hall” which is the main cave. When observing the beautiful Zedekiah’s Cave, you will notice the majority of the cave’s material is a white limestone known as “Melekeh.” While approaching the iron door entrance of Solomon’s Quarries, you will see a white and denser limestone, known as “Mizzi-helou.” As you walk through the illuminated paths throughout the cave, there are appearances of “Mizzi-ahmar,” or red and iron-containing limestone, and “Mizzi-Yehudi,” or harder stones. As you walk through the marvelous quarries look for the carvings on the walls, such as what resembles the Assyrian sphinx, a four-legged animal with a human face, and the graffiti markings by the Arabic, Greek, Armenian, and English.
Visitors can enter Zedekiah’s Cave between Herod Gate and Damascus Gate behind the Old City wall on Sultan Suleiman Street, and can either choose to go through the cave with an organized tour or self-guided. The cave is open from Sunday through Friday from 9:00 to 17:00, and there is an entrance fee of NIS 10. Unfortunately, this attraction is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. For more information on Zedekiah’s Cave or to purchase tickets, call 972-2-627-7550.
After exploring Zedekiah’s Cave and Solomon’s Quarries in Jerusalem, stay at the beautiful and affordable Jerusalem Gold Hotel. As we are offering special rates for those who observed the Zedekiah’s Cave attraction, make sure to mention the event when making your hotel reservations at the Jerusalem Gold Hotel. We can ensure that you and your family will enjoy your relaxing stay at our elegant and comfortable Hotel! |
