Uncovering the Western Wall Tunnels: A Journey Beneath Jerusalem’s Holiest Site

The Temple Mount in Jerusalem is one of the most sacred places in the world. For Jews, it holds profound historical and spiritual significance. The Western Wall, a remaining segment of the Second Temple’s retaining wall, is a symbol of faith and resilience. Located in the Old City of Jerusalem, the wall is a central site of prayer and pilgrimage.

Millions of visitors flock to the Western Wall Plaza every year. Many also take part in one of Israel’s most popular and powerful experiences: the Western Wall Tunnel Tour, a guided journey through the underground passages that run beneath the Muslim Quarter and along the hidden length of the Wall.

The Western Wall Tunnels: A Glimpse into Ancient Jerusalem

Though only about 230 feet of the wall are visible above ground, the Western Wall stretches nearly 1,640 feet in total. Much of it is buried beneath centuries of construction. The Western Wall Tunnels offer access to these concealed sections, allowing visitors to touch original stones and experience the architectural grandeur of the Second Temple era.

These underground spaces reveal ancient arches, ritual baths, and aqueducts that shed light on life during biblical times. Visitors walk through carefully excavated passageways, discovering layers of history hidden beneath Jerusalem’s surface.

Excavations began following the Six-Day War in 1967, initially focusing on the open plaza. Over time, archaeological work extended beneath the Muslim Quarter, uncovering monumental remains of the Temple Mount’s western support structure and affirming the deep-rooted connection between the Jewish people and Jerusalem.

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Highlights of the Western Wall Tunnels

Wilson’s Arch
Named after British officer Charles Wilson, this grand supporting arch once helped support a bridge connecting the Upper City to the Temple Mount. It’s a key architectural feature that reveals the scale and ingenuity of ancient construction.

The Herodian Hall
A large public structure built near the Temple Mount during the reign of King Herod, the Herodian Hall includes intricately carved stone columns and served as a civic space for pilgrims heading to the Temple.

The Great Stone
Perhaps the most famous of all, this massive stone weighs approximately 570 tons, making it one of the largest building stones in the world. Measuring 43 feet long, 13 feet wide, and 10 feet high, its size continues to baffle modern engineers.

Warren’s Gate
One of the four original gates along the Western Wall, Warren’s Gate once led directly to the Temple Mount plaza. It is named for British explorer Charles Warren.

The Herodian Plaza
This ancient plaza features beautifully preserved paving stones and two ornamental columns, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Jerusalem 2,000 years ago.

The Hasmonean Water Channel
A remarkable remnant from the Hasmonean period, this water channel ends at a section of the Struthion Pool and reflects the sophistication of ancient water engineering.

Optional Experience: The Chain of Generations

Adjacent to the Western Wall Tunnels is the Chain of Generations exhibit. Though not part of the tunnel tour, it is a powerful artistic installation that illustrates the unbroken continuity of the Jewish people and their eternal bond with Jerusalem.

Sacred Significance: The Holiness of the Western Wall

Jewish tradition teaches that the Divine Presence has never departed from the Western Wall. Midrashic sources recount that although Israel’s enemies were commanded to destroy it, Divine will decreed that it would stand forever. The Western Wall, aligned with the Holy of Holies, is believed to connect directly with the Heavenly Temple.

The late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef explained that the sanctity of the wall as we know it today corresponds to the very heart of the Temple. The sages teach that praying at the Western Wall is like standing before the Throne of Glory, where prayers are directly received.

The revered Rabbi Maharam Hagiz wrote that the wall remains untouched because it was founded by King David himself and protected by Divine craftsmanship. Its enduring strength defies nature, evidence, he believed, of heavenly assistance.

Plan Your Visit

The Western Wall Tunnel Tour is offered only with a certified guide, and advance reservations are highly recommended. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes a return escort from the Muslim Quarter back to the Jewish Quarter. Tours are available in multiple languages.

Whether you're visiting for historical curiosity, spiritual inspiration, or both, the Western Wall Tunnels offer an unforgettable encounter with Jerusalem’s ancient soul.