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Lot's Cave
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Lot's Cave is situated on a steep mountainside overlooking the modern town of Ghor as-Safi near the southeastern shore of the Dead Sea. Traditionally identified as the place where the biblical figure Lot and his daughters sought refuge after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the site is of great religious significance. Archaeological investigations have revealed a significant Byzantine monastery complex from the 6th and 7th centuries built directly around the natural cave. The centerpiece is a triple-aisled basilica featuring exquisite mosaic floors with Greek inscriptions dated to 606 and 691 AD. The site also includes monastic living quarters, a large burial chamber, and a modern museum at the base of the hill showcasing local artifacts. Its elevated position provides a sweeping view of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, emphasizing its historical role as a major pilgrimage destination in late antiquity.
- Location: Jordan
- Nearby: Tafilah (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 17 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 66 | 50 | 24 | 13 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 19 | 34 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The cave is located in the steep mountains near the Dead Sea, reachable via a short but challenging hiking trail. The entrance is freely accessible, but caution is needed on the rocky path.
Typical hours
As a natural cave, it is accessible during daylight hours. Best visited in the early morning to avoid the midday heat of the Jordan Valley.
Photography
Photography is allowed inside and in front of the cave. A wide-angle lens works well to capture the full cave opening with the surrounding mountain scenery.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for the round-trip hike and time at the cave. Add extra time for visiting nearby viewpoints.
Combine with
The cave is near the Dead Sea, which gives swimming and mud treatments. Kerak Castle is about an hour away by car and worth visiting.
Getting there
The cave is reachable by car via the Dead Sea highway, followed by a short walk. Parking is available on the main road; a four-wheel-drive is not required.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water as the area is dry and hot. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants to protect against the rocky terrain and vegetation.
Geography
Facts
- Located near the Dead Sea's southeast shore
- Traditional refuge of the biblical Lot
- Byzantine monastery built in 6th-7th century
- Mosaics dated to 606 and 691 AD
- Features a triple-aisled church structure
- On-site museum at the hill's base
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Lot's Cave (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the biblical significance of Lot's Cave?
According to tradition, this is where Lot and his daughters sought refuge after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Is the climb to the cave difficult?
You need to climb about 300 steep steps, which can be tiring in the heat, but the view is rewarding.
What else can be seen there besides the cave?
Right in front of the cave are the ruins of a Byzantine church with well-preserved mosaic floors.
Where exactly is the cave located?
It is located near the Dead Sea, on a hillside overlooking the town of Ghor as-Safi.
Is there a museum nearby?
Yes, at the base of the hill is the 'Museum at the Lowest Point on Earth', showcasing local artifacts.
Lot's Cave: where is it located?
Lot's Cave is located in Jordan.
Lot's Cave: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Lot's Cave: why is it worth visiting?
Lot's Cave is situated on a steep mountainside overlooking the modern town of Ghor as-Safi near the southeastern shore of the Dead Sea.
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