The Akeldama Tombs: Three burial caves in the Kidron Valley, Jerusalem

The confluence of the Kidron and Hinnon Valleys, south of the old city of Jerusalem, contains one of Jerusalem's richest concentrations of rock-hewn tombs. This area, located on the periphery of the village of Silwan, was one of the main burial grounds of Jerusalem in the first temple period. Numerous tombs were hewn in the lower Kidron Valley. Several of these were reused much later, either for burial or as shelter for hermits and monks of the large monastic communities which inhabited the Kidron Valley. Early Christian traditions identify this area with the Potter's Field, or the Field Of Blood, bought as a burial ground for foreigners by the high priest with Judas' 30 silver pieces. An alternative version of the tradition relates that this was the field bought by Judas himself after the betrayal. The Israel Antiquities Authority brings you this explorative publication to reveal and discuss the extraordinary finds. This volume connects us straight to the rich history of the area through the structures and items discovered. Written in English.