The City of David in Jerusalem

Considered the original site of Ancient Jerusalem, the City of David (or Ir David) is a major archeological site to be visited during your stay in Israel. Located in the South of the Temple Mount, near the Garbage Gate, this site evoked in many passages of the Bible is a starting point of the Holy City’s history. With over 3,000 years of history, it still unveils its secrets during archaeological excavations.

To relive the birth of Jerusalem

The history of the City of David begins about 3,000 years ago. At that time king David reigns over Israel and his 12 tribes from the city of Hebron. After seven years of victories and prosperity, the king decides to conquer a small city (Yeru Shalem) built on the top of a hill by the Jebusites and to make it the new capital of the Kingdom of Israel. His choice was not accidental: Yeru Shalem (which will become Yerushalaim) was not only close to the source of Gihon but also surrounded by mountains - including Mount Moriah which is very symbolic to Judaism (Sacrifice of Isaac, symbol of trust in G-d).

This place was considered by the king the perfect place to build a Temple for the G-d of Israel. Thus, after the capture of the city, King David transforms the city into the symbol of the unity of the 12 tribes of Israel and brings in the Ark of the Covenant. His son Solomon, appointed by G-d, will build the Temple or Beit Hamikdash. King David will build his palace there. It was a magnificent building destroyed during the invasion of the city by Nebuchadnezzar.

In the City of David you may find remains of the prosperous era of the Kingdom of Israel until the last days of the Kingdom of Judea with the constructions of King Hezekiah (Hiskiyahu).

A captivating visit

Leaded by our licensed guides, during your visit to the City of David you will admire the remains of this ancient city, such as the ruins of King David's Palace, the well of Warren, the remains of a house of the King's relatives where seals of counselors mentioned in the Bible were found.

Through a detailed historical narrative, you may also relive major events mentioned in the Bible, such as the crowning of King Solomon at Gihon source. But the most memorable moment of your visit to the City of David will be the crossing of Hezekiah’s tunnel. About 600 meters long, this tunnel was dug by King Hezekiah in 700 BC to convey water from Gihon source to the fortified city, in anticipation of the war against the Assyrians.

For about 20 minutes, standing in water or not you will experience a unique adventure that will immerse you in the Ancient Jerusalem.