10 must-see wonders at the City of David in Jerusalem

The City of David, an archaeological treasure trove located just south of Jerusalem’s Old City walls, offers a rare glimpse into the ancient past. Believed to be the original site of Jerusalem during the time of King David, this historic area has revealed incredible findings that connect biblical narratives with physical evidence. Visitors can walk through underground tunnels, explore water systems, and stand on pathways used by pilgrims thousands of years ago. Here are ten must-see highlights when visiting the City of David.

1. The Gihon Spring – The Lifeblood of Ancient Jerusalem

The Gihon Spring is one of the oldest and most significant water sources in Jerusalem’s history. It was the city’s primary water supply for thousands of years and played a pivotal role in the Bible, including in the anointing of King Solomon as recorded in 1 Kings 1:38-39. The spring’s water was essential for the survival of the city’s inhabitants, making it a key reason why the earliest settlers chose this location. It also powered complex water systems, including tunnels and reservoirs, ensuring that Jerusalem had a secure and constant water supply even during sieges. Today, visitors can see the spring flowing through ancient channels, providing an authentic glimpse into the past.

2. Warren’s Shaft – A Mysterious Tunnel of Conquest

Discovered by British explorer Charles Warren in the 19th century, this deep vertical shaft is believed to have been used to access water safely during times of war. Some scholars propose that David’s warriors may have used it to infiltrate and conquer Jerusalem from the Jebusites, as described in 2 Samuel 5:8. However, newer research suggests that it might not have been a functional water access tunnel during David’s time, leaving room for debate. Visitors descending into Warren’s Shaft can experience the narrow passageways and impressive engineering that made it such an essential part of ancient Jerusalem’s defenses.

3. Hezekiah’s Tunnel – A Walk Through Biblical Engineering

One of the most remarkable engineering feats of the ancient world, Hezekiah’s Tunnel was built in the 8th century BCE under the rule of King Hezekiah. This 533-meter-long tunnel was chiseled through solid rock to redirect water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam, ensuring that Jerusalem’s inhabitants had access to water even if under siege by the Assyrians, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 32:30. The most exciting way to experience Hezekiah’s Tunnel is by walking through it—waist-deep in cool, flowing water—just as ancient Jerusalemites would have done.

4. The Pool of Siloam – A Sacred and Historic Reservoir

Discovered in 2004, the Pool of Siloam was a ritual purification pool used by Jewish pilgrims before ascending to the Temple Mount. It is also famous in Christian tradition as the place where Jesus healed a blind man by instructing him to wash in its waters (John 9:7). This large, stepped pool was part of Jerusalem’s water infrastructure during the Second Temple period, making it both a religious and historical landmark. Excavations are still ongoing, revealing more about the pool’s size and its connection to the ancient Pilgrim’s Road.

5. The Stepped Street (Pilgrim’s Road) – The Ancient Path to the Temple

The Stepped Street, also known as the Pilgrim’s Road, was the main route used by Jewish pilgrims as they ascended from the Pool of Siloam to the Second Temple. This impressive stone-paved road, buried for centuries, is slowly being uncovered, revealing evidence of ancient shops, coins, and even fallen stones from the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE. Walking along this road is like stepping back in time to when thousands of pilgrims traveled here to celebrate Jewish festivals.

6. The Royal Quarter (Area G) – Traces of Jerusalem’s Kings

One of the most significant excavation sites in the City of David, Area G, also known as the Royal Quarter, contains the remains of grand buildings that may have been part of King David’s palace complex. Among the most notable finds are a proto-Aeolic capital, a decorative stone feature associated with royal and governmental structures in the ancient Near East. Pottery and inscriptions found here suggest that these ruins date back to the First Temple period, providing valuable insights into the early days of Jewish rule in Jerusalem.

7. The Large Stone Structure – King David’s Palace?

A massive structure uncovered in the City of David has sparked debate among archaeologists. Some believe it could be King David’s palace, described in 2 Samuel 5:11. The 10th-century BCE structure is larger than any other contemporary buildings in the area, suggesting it was used for governmental or royal purposes. If confirmed, this would be one of the most significant biblical archaeological discoveries ever made.

8. The City Walls and Towers – Jerusalem’s Ancient Fortifications

The City of David’s excavation site has revealed sections of fortifications built in different periods, from the Canaanite era to the Judean kings. Some walls are believed to date back to the time of King Solomon, mentioned in 1 Kings 3:1. These defenses protected the city from invaders for centuries, showcasing the strategic importance of Jerusalem throughout history.

9. The First Temple Period Houses – A Glimpse into Daily Life

Excavations have uncovered well-preserved First Temple period homes, complete with personal items like pottery, seals, and inscriptions. These findings provide rare insights into how people lived, worked, and worshipped in ancient Jerusalem. Some homes show signs of fire damage, likely from the Babylonian destruction of the city in 586 BCE, as described in 2 Kings 25:9.

10. The Biblical Ophel – The Link to the Temple Mount

Located between the City of David and the Temple Mount, the Ophel was a hub of activity during the First and Second Temple periods. Excavations have uncovered storage rooms, fortifications, and even royal seals bearing the names of biblical figures, confirming the area’s role in Jerusalem’s administrative and religious life. The Ophel serves as a vital piece of the puzzle in understanding ancient Jewish governance and temple operations.

The City of David is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world, offering unparalleled insights into biblical history, ancient engineering, and the daily life of Jerusalem’s earliest inhabitants.