Herodian
NileGuide Expert Says:
Ancient history comes to life...User Rating:
Address:
Jerusalem, Israel
Phone:
+972-50-623-5821NileGuide Expert tip:
Don't miss walking through the underground escape tunnels.Description:
Herod was a master builder who lived between 37-4 BCE and was responsible for building the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Somewhere between 20-23 BCE Herod decided to build a summer palace and he found a hill about 6 miles south of Jerusalem, which he topped off and built a complex of cisterns and annexes for his family and friends. After his death and a period where Herod's son ran things, the Romans took over and the site became a battleground between the Jewish zealots and the Romans--the Jews built a system of ritual baths and underground tunnels to use during their revolt against the Romans and those may still be seen today. `a few years ago, Herod's tomb was discovered at the site and today Herodian is part of Israel's National Parks system. It's a great place for hiking and exploring, with spectacular views toward Jerusalem and Bethlehem.Map:
