Solomon's Pools, Ancient Roman reservoir near Bethlehem, West Bank
Solomon's Pools are three interconnected stone reservoirs near Bethlehem that functioned as water storage facilities. The largest basin extends approximately 180 meters in length and reaches about 23 meters in depth.
These reservoirs were constructed in the first century BCE and supplied Jerusalem through an extensive aqueduct network during the Second Temple period. Their design reflects Roman engineering techniques that later influenced water management practices across the region.
The name references King Solomon, though Romans later expanded and used these structures. This blend of ancient tradition and Roman engineering shapes how visitors experience the site today.
The pools sit along the main road between Bethlehem and Hebron and are fairly accessible to reach. Local guides are available to help visitors understand the ancient structures and their purpose better.
Underground springs feed directly into the lower pool through ancient channels carved into the bedrock below the structure. This natural water source allowed the pools to remain active across many centuries.
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