- Address: Jerusalem, 9114001, Israel;
- Website: tod.org.il;
- Phone: +972 2-626-5333;
- Operating time: Mon. - Sat. from 9:00 to 16:00, Sun. - from 9:00 to 14:00.
The Tower of David, or Citadel, is a defensive structure built in the II century BC. Over the next several centuries, the building was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. The greatest influence on the Citadel was rendered by the Turks, whose troops were in it for 400 years. The Tower of David is the custodian of many historical secrets, so visiting it as if immersing in several eras, which seem to have remained only in the pages of history.
Description
The impressive size of the fortress was built over 2,000 years ago for the defense of the Old City . Jerusalem was repeatedly conquered and every "new owner" rebuilt the fortress, so today it is not enough of its pristine species. Many scientists see this as a special cultural and historical value, because in the world there are not many forts that have been repeatedly rebuilt and preserved in excellent condition. It is important to understand that the first Citadel was built before the beginning of our era, and the one that we can see today was built in the 14th century under the Ottoman Sultan.
In addition, the excavations of the Citadel helped to find evidence that this place was a fortress built during the reign of Herod the Great, that is, it was the forerunner of the Tower of David.
The entrance to the Tower is open from March to November, seven days a week. The ticket price for an adult is $ 7, for a child - $ 3.5.
What's interestnig?
Near the Tower of David is the Museum of the History of Jerusalem. It was recently opened in 1989. The museum's premises belong to the Citadel, since it is located in its courtyard. The museum's collection consists of valuable exhibits, some of them over 2000 years old. The permanent exhibition tells the visitors of the museum about how Jerusalem was formed and what happened in its territory since the Canaanite period.
Among the items there are original maps, drawings and other antique objects. In order for visitors to better visualize the main events in the history of Jerusalem, there are halls in the museum where video recordings and holograms are being played, as well as layouts.
In addition to visiting the museum, tourists can see in the courtyard valuable finds of archaeologists, for example, the arch of the times of the Crusaders. An excellent end of the excursion will be the ascent to the fortress walls of the Tower of David, from there a magnificent view of the Old Town opens.
How to get there?
You can get to the Tower of David in Jerusalem by city buses №20 and №60, which go from the Central Station, it is 3 km from the place. The main reference point for finding the sights is the Jaffa Gate, through which you need to go to get to the Tower.