Visited this attraction on the way to the Garden Tomb. The caves extend a long way under the ground and are very interesting. Plenty of great photo opportunities.
Zedekiah’s Cave (King Solomon’s Quarries)
About 9,000 square-meters beneath the Old City houses lies a most remarkable cave, both in size and beauty. This legendary cave, known as Zedekiah’s Cave, one of the most spectacular sites in Jerusalem, served in antiquity as a quarry for the massive stones that built the Temple and its mount under King Solomon.
Events and Live Shows
Are you planning an event? Zedekiah’s Cave is a magical event venue that hosts unforgettable celebrations. The cave’s space can be arranged in various seating displays and can accommodate up to 500 people. Morning, afternoon or evening events can be booked at Zedekiah’s Cave, and an outside catering service can also be ordered. The cave is partially accessible to people with disabilities and there is parking for busses. A special Zedekiah’s Cave bonus is a guided tour around the cave and the secret crawling tunnel.
This place is also home to live music and performances by the best Israeli artists. Stay updated on Zedekiah’s Cave’s Facebook Page and come see unique performances by talented musicians such as Shlomi Shaban, Shlomo Gronich and the Dag Nachash.
Photographs: Pami, Yael Herman
Additional Info
Opening times in June, July and August:
Sunday-Thursday and Saturday: 09:00am-10:00pm
Directions
Walking Directions:
Walk around the Old City walls from Jaffa Gate to Damascus Gate. The entrance to the cave is hidden between Damascus Gate and Herod’s Gate. Then, enter the Northern Ramparts Walk (from Jaffa Gate to Lions gate). Descend at the Damascus Gate. The entrance to the cave is about 200 yards east of the Damascus Gate. There is a direct exit from the northern Ramparts Walk to Zedekiah’s Cave.
Public Transportation:
Light Rail: Get off at Damascus Gate Stop
Egged Busses: Get off at Damascus Gate Stop/ Sultan Suleiman Street
TripAdvisor Reviews
Based on 57 traveler reviews“Large cave/ quarry, limited interest”
Close to Damascus Gate (about 100 feet to the east along the Old City wall), the cave was apparently a quarry during the Roman era. Few obvious signs of antiquity. It's interesting that water drips into the cave even during the dry season. The site is well lit and goes deep underground. Wear...
MoreClose to Damascus Gate (about 100 feet to the east along the Old City wall), the cave was apparently a quarry during the Roman era. Few obvious signs of antiquity. It's interesting that water drips into the cave even during the dry season. The site is well lit and goes deep underground. Wear good shoes. Not suitable for handicapped. Good on a hot day or if you are extraordinarily interested in caves or quarries or this is your 5th visit and you need to kill some time.
Less“Jerusalem 2016”
Zedekiah's Cave also called Solomon's Quarries is a underground meleke limestone quarry that runs under the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. It was carved over a period of several thousand years and is a remnant of the largest quarry in Jerusalem The entrance to Zedekiah's Cave is just beneath the Old City...
MoreZedekiah's Cave also called Solomon's Quarries is a underground meleke limestone quarry that runs under the Muslim Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. It was carved over a period of several thousand years and is a remnant of the largest quarry in Jerusalem The entrance to Zedekiah's Cave is just beneath the Old City wall, between the Damascus and Herod Gates, Beyond the narrow entrance, the cave slopes down into a vast chamber. Drops of water, known as “Zedekiah's tears”, trickle through the ceiling.
Less“An Expensive Cave Journey but Very Good”
“Underground cave/quarry”
Located under the Muslim Quarter, accessed from outside of the Old City near Damascus gate. A downward sloped path. Wear sturdy shoes. It can be slippery in spots. Respite from the sun. It was fun to explore. Detailed English brochure was provided at the ticket booth. Cost: 16NIS ($4.15 USD)
“A must see”
I was just amazed at this place. It made my mind work overtime just to figure out how did King Solomon and his workers cut and removed the stone from this cave to built the 1st Temple. A must see for everyone