King David’s Tomb

A Crusader structure erected two millennia after his death, King David’s Tomb provides little spectacle. What’s more, the authenticity of the site is highly disputable – the likelihood is that David is buried under the hill of the original Mt Zion, east of the City of David. However, this is one of the most revered of the Jewish holy places, and from 1948 to 1967, when the Western Wall was off limits to Jews in Jordanian-held territory, the tomb was the stand-in main centre of pilgrimage. It still serves as a prayer hall. The sombre room is divided into sides for men and women, both leading to the stone cenotaph draped in velvet. Behind is a small alcove that researchers believe is a synagogue dating back to the 5th century AD. To get to the tomb head south from Zion Gate, bear right at the fork and then left. Modest dress is required.