Hezekiah's Water Tunnel
City:
Jerusalem
State, Province, Region, or District:
Jerusalem District
Country:
Israel
Overview
Hezekiah's Water Tunnel, also called the Siloam Tunnel, is an extraordinary ancient water tunnel situated in the southern region of the City of David in Jerusalem. The City of David lies just south of the Temple Mount and represents the original section of Jerusalem before its expansion over the centuries. Around 700 BC, King Hezekiah built this water tunnel to ensure the water supply from the Gihon Spring was within the city walls, thereby preventing the Assyrians from accessing it during a siege (2 Chronicles 32:3-4).
This tunnel, measuring 1,749 feet (533 meters) in length, is regarded as a remarkable engineering achievement for several reasons. The tunnel is winding rather than straight, increasing the distance by 40%. This design was likely chosen to avoid geological faults or to follow natural underground fractures. Workers began from opposite ends and meticulously carved through solid limestone using only bronze pickaxes, eventually converging precisely in the middle. The most impressive aspect is the elevation difference; over its entire 1,749-foot length, the floor drops by merely 12 inches (30 centimeters). This creates a consistent 0.06% gravity-fed slope, ensuring a continuous flow of water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam.
Today, Hezekiah's Tunnel is a popular archaeological site and tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to walk through the ancient waterway.
Alternate Names
Hezekiah's Water Tunnel; Hezekiah's Tunnel; Siloam Tunnel
Geography & Location
Hezekiah's Water Tunnel (or Siloam Tunnel) is located in the City of David National Park just south of the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem. It runs entirely underground, connecting the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Hezekiah's Water Tunnel was constructed during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah in around 700 BC. The Bible mentions it in the context of preparations for an impending siege by the Assyrians, led by Sennacherib.
Architecture
Hezekiah's Water Tunnel in Jerusalem is a masterclass in ancient subterranean engineering and architecture, built in the late 8th century BC to secure the city's water supply against an Assyrian siege. Hand-carved entirely through solid limestone bedrock beneath the City of David, this 533-meter (1,749-foot) serpentine aqueduct successfully rerouted the water of the Gihon Spring into the fortified city.
Biblical & Historical References
Direct and Indirect References to the Hezekiah's Tunnel
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Even though Hezekiah had a wicked father, he chose to serve the Lord.
Etymology
Hezekiah's Tunnel: Named in reference to King Hezekiah of Judah (reigned late 8th century BCE), who ordered the engineering marvel to secure the city’s water supply and deny it to the Assyrian army. His name in Hebrew is Ḥizkiyāhu (חִזְקִיָּהוּ), which translates to "Yahweh has strengthened" or "strength of Yahweh."
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
Hezekiah’s Broad Wall
Virtual Visit
Several virtual tours and video walkthroughs allow you to experience Hezekiah's Water Tunnel (the Siloam Tunnel) from home. These digital options explore the City of David National Park in Jerusalem where the ancient 2,700-year-old engineering marvel sits. Some top virtual resources include: