Tomb of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi, Rock-cut tomb on Mount of Olives, Jerusalem, Israel
The Tomb of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi is a rock-cut burial chamber on the Mount of Olives with a central vault and multiple tunnels carved into stone. The underground complex demonstrates careful craftsmanship in how it was shaped directly from the hillside rock.
Medieval Jewish tradition identifies this place as the burial site of three prophets from the 6th and 5th centuries BC. Archaeological evidence, however, indicates the tomb was actually built around the 1st century BC, creating a gap between religious tradition and the structure's actual age.
The site holds deep religious meaning for both Jewish and Christian visitors, with Greek inscriptions showing that Christians also used it for burials over time. This shared reverence reflects how different faiths have honored the place across centuries.
Access is through a western entrance with a stone staircase leading down into the underground burial chambers. Visitors should expect tight spaces and be prepared for uneven, potentially slippery surfaces.
The complex holds around 38 burial niches arranged in two concentric passages, showing how the site was expanded over time to accommodate more burials. This design allowed builders to use the available space efficiently within the rocky hillside.
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