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 61 traveler reviews
Having been to Israel a number of times; we were looking for something new to explore. This definitely surprised us. The size and location of the cave is what really captivated us. We also enjoyed being able to take our time and explore without the crowds and it was a pleasant...
MoreHaving been to Israel a number of times; we were looking for something new to explore. This definitely surprised us. The size and location of the cave is what really captivated us. We also enjoyed being able to take our time and explore without the crowds and it was a pleasant escape from the heat. I will say, that if you decide to venture in, be sure to have on good walking shoes.
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Large deep man made caves possibly used to build the second temple. If you like caves it is pretty much just seeing a giant hole and some tunnels. It is a lot bigger than I expected though and took maybe 20 to 30 to walk through. Somewhat interesting but not a priority to see....
MoreLarge deep man made caves possibly used to build the second temple. If you like caves it is pretty much just seeing a giant hole and some tunnels. It is a lot bigger than I expected though and took maybe 20 to 30 to walk through. Somewhat interesting but not a priority to see. Private events can rent the space so hours can change and close. Not sure if I would pay for this site though if not included in the "nine attractions for 100 NIS" deal for many major sites that you can buy, just google for more info.
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The entrance to this quarry is about, 100m east of Damascus Gate. This is an enormous cave (quarry) that stretches far under the Moslem quarter of the Old City. There is little to see and the attraction is its enormity. But tonight was different because, as part of the Festival of Lights, a very...
MoreThe entrance to this quarry is about, 100m east of Damascus Gate. This is an enormous cave (quarry) that stretches far under the Moslem quarter of the Old City. There is little to see and the attraction is its enormity. But tonight was different because, as part of the Festival of Lights, a very talented pianist played a grand piano deep in the cave.
LessClose 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.
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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.
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