The Hasmonean Water Tunnel (also called “Armon Hanatziv Tunnel”) is a tunnel carved through a ridge south of Jerusalem’s old city to enable water supply to Jerusalem in Hellenistic and Roman times.

History of the Hasmonean Water Tunnel

Jerusalem was founded around a spring some 4000 years ago, yet by the Hellenistic period, the city’s growing population required additional water sources. Implementing Roman water engineering, two aqueducts were built to supply water from springs in the Hebron mountains, some 40 km south of the city. Despite the distance, the careful planning of the aqueducts ensured the water flow into the town to the Temple Mount and the Upper City. It is not sure when each aqueduct was installed, but it is assumed that the Maccabees built the lower aqueduct. South of Jerusalem, a long and high ridge (“Armon Hanatziv”) formed a topographical obstacle in the path of the aqueduct. The solution was a 423-meter tunnel carved through it. It was dug by two teams from opposite ends and had five ventilation shafts. The tunnel was also used in subsequent periods and up to the first half of the 20^th century.

Walking Through the Hasmonean Water Tunnel

The site is maintained by the ELAD organization. Going through the tunnel must be pre-arranged, and it is best if done with a guide. It is dark most of the way, so headlamps are recommended.

A tour of the Hasmonean Water Tunnel can be integrated into a Day Tour of Jerusalem.