Architects' Tombs, Rock-cut burial site in Jerusalem, Israel
The Architects' Tombs is a limestone burial complex north of Jerusalem's Old City featuring multiple interconnected chambers carved into the rock. The rooms contain burial benches and floor-level recesses carved for the deceased.
These tombs were created during the First Temple period, when Jerusalem was an important urban center. Archaeological investigations in the 1800s revealed the system of two differently designed burial chambers carved into the bedrock.
The chambers show how families designed and used burial spaces in biblical times. They served to bury multiple generations in one location, preserving family continuity over centuries.
Access is through a series of stone staircases descending into the burial chambers. Visitors should expect narrow passages and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the steps safely.
The entrance chamber displays decorative cornices and recessed wall panels that typically appeared in royal buildings and palaces. This suggests the burial site belonged to a family of high social status in ancient times.
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