City of David – Old City Jerusalem

The City of David, located just south of Jerusalem’s Old City walls, is the site of Jerusalem’s earliest settlement and the historical heart of biblical Jerusalem. Dating back to the 10th century BCE, it is traditionally identified as King David’s original capital, where he established Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel (2 Samuel 5:6-7). Visitors can explore its most significant sites, including Hezekiah’s Tunnel, an underground water channel that secured the city’s water supply; the Stepped Stone Structure, a massive retaining wall supporting ancient terraces; Warren’s Shaft, an ancient vertical tunnel believed to have provided access to water in the Gihon Spring before Hezekiah’s Tunnel was built; the Pool of Siloam, a sacred site of healing and daily ritual; the ancient city walls and gates, which reveal the defensive ingenuity of ancient Jerusalem; and the Pilgrim Road, recently discovered, which was the route Jewish pilgrims took to the Temple during festivals. Walking along these sites offers a unique glimpse into the devotional practices, daily life, and architectural brilliance of ancient Jerusalemites.

For Christian travelers, the City of David is a profoundly meaningful destination because it brings the Bible to life in a tangible way. As the original core of Jerusalem, it is intimately connected with King David, the revered biblical figure through whom God’s covenant and the Messianic line were established (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Walking its ancient streets, pilgrims can see the path of the Pilgrim Road, linking Old Testament worship practices to the New Testament fulfillment in Jesus’ ministry. Key sites like Hezekiah’s Tunnel, the Pool of Siloam, and ancient city gates provide context to the stories of kings, prophets, and biblical events, allowing visitors to engage with scripture in a physical, immersive way. Many Christian tours to Israel include the City of David in their itineraries, offering expert guidance to fully appreciate its spiritual and historical significance.

Exploring the City of David today allows visitors to trace the footsteps of ancient residents, kings, and biblical figures. Its combination of archaeology, history, and biblical heritage, now enhanced by the discovery of the Pilgrim Road, makes it an essential destination for anyone seeking to connect with Jerusalem’s profound past. Experiencing these locations firsthand deepens faith, encourages reflection on biblical teachings, and transforms a visit into both a spiritual journey and a historical exploration.