Silwan necropolis, Ancient necropolis in Kidron Valley, Jerusalem, Israel
The Silwan necropolis is an ancient burial complex with around fifty rock-cut tombs scattered across the eastern slope of the Kidron Valley. The chambers feature high entrances and gabled ceilings carved directly from the limestone cliff.
The tombs were created between the 9th and 7th centuries BC when Jerusalem officials buried their families in elaborate rock chambers. This building tradition reflects how burial practices evolved during the Iron Age in the region.
Hebrew inscriptions carved into the tomb facades name administrative officials and warn against grave disturbance. These texts reveal how the people of that time wanted to protect and honor their burial places.
The site requires sturdy footwear and careful footing on the uneven paths along the cliff. You get the best views of the tombs from trails on the opposite side of the valley.
The tombs are monolithic, carved directly from the living rock, showing a rare construction method not found in other burials of the Levant from that period. This technique required exceptional skill and was likely reserved for Jerusalem's wealthy elite.
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