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Tower of David

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monument
—°6
Tower of David (Israel)

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The Tower of David, also known as the Jerusalem Citadel, is a historic fortress located near the Jaffa Gate at the western entrance to the Old City. Despite its popular name, the structure has no direct historical connection to the biblical King David; the misnomer originated during the Byzantine era. The current architectural complex is the result of thousands of years of continuous construction, starting with the massive towers built by Herod the Great to defend his palace. Over the centuries, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, and Ottomans iteratively rebuilt and expanded the citadel. The iconic Ottoman minaret, added in the 17th century, stands today as one of Jerusalem's most recognizable landmarks. The citadel now houses the Tower of David Museum, which presents the city's 3,000-year history through immersive exhibits. Archaeological excavations in the courtyard reveal ruins spanning from the Hasmonean period to the modern age.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C111215182225272726231814
Rain mm8862372151102144683

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Tower of David, also the Jerusalem citadel, is a historical monument with a museum inside. The interior spaces and observation platform are open to visitors.
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Typical hours
The museum and citadel are typically open daily, with exact hours varying by season. On Jewish holidays there may be reduced hours.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas, without flash in some exhibition rooms. The observation platform gives excellent panoramic views of the Old City.
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Time needed
For a visit to the museum and citadel, allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours. If you explore the courtyard and exhibitions, it may take longer.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the Old City of Jerusalem, especially the Jaffa Gate and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Tower of David is right by the Jaffa Gate, making it a handy starting point.
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Getting there
The Tower of David is in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City, at the Jaffa Gate. You can reach it on foot through the Old City or by bus to the Jaffa Gate.
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Insider tip
Visit the tower in the late afternoon to experience the sunset over the Old City. Book tickets online in advance to avoid waiting.

Geography

Coordinates
31.77640, 35.22860

Facts

  • The base of the Phasael tower dates back to Herod's era.
  • Most of the current structure was built by Ottomans in 1537.
  • The Tower of David Museum opened to the public in 1989.
  • The name was mistakenly attributed by Byzantine Christians.
  • Courtyard excavations reveal walls from the Hasmonean period.
  • The site serves as a venue for a famous night spectacular light show.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Jaffa GateJaffa Gate<1 km · SExplore →
Kidron ValleyKidron Valley1 km · NWExplore →
Mount ScopusMount Scopus2 km · NEExplore →
JerusalemJerusalem2 km · SWExplore →
Mahane Yehuda MarketMahane Yehuda Market2 km · SEExplore →
Jebel MukabbirJebel Mukabbir3 km · WExplore →
Al-EizariyaAl-Eizariya4 km · NExplore →
Wadi el-Arayis Nature AreaWadi el-Arayis Nature Area4 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Tower of David (6)

Cardo🏺 historical

The Cardo is an excavated ancient Roman main street and historic ruin in tower-of-david-history-v2.

Stairs to rooftop walks📍 landmark

The stairs to rooftop walks serve as a notable attraction in the tower-of-david-history-v2 area.

St. Toros Church⛪ religious

St. Toros Church is an Armenian place of worship located in the tower-of-david-history-v2 area.

Maronite Church⛪ religious

The Maronite Church is a notable place of worship serving the local community in the tower-of-david-history-v2 area.

Tombs🏺 historical

These ancient tombs form an archaeological site in the tower-of-david-history-v2 area.

Tower of David🏰 castle

The Tower of David is a historic castle defining the landscape of the tower-of-david-history-v2 area.

🕒 09:00-16:00; Fr 09:00-14:00

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Tower of David?
An ancient citadel located near the Jaffa Gate in Jerusalem.
Are there any shows?
Yes, the nightly Sound and Light Show is very famous.
Can you climb the towers?
Yes, it provides one of the best panoramic views of Jerusalem.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is it accessible?
After major renovations, much of it is now accessible.
Tower of David: where is it located?
Tower of David is located in Israel.
Tower of David: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cardo, Stairs to rooftop walks, St. Toros Church.
Tower of David: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Tower of David: why is it worth visiting?
The Tower of David, also known as the Jerusalem Citadel, is a historic fortress located near the Jaffa Gate at the western entrance to the Old City.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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