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Kidron Valley

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Kidron Valley

Overview

The Kidron Valley is a natural wadi situated along the eastern edge of Jerusalem's Old City, separating it from the Mount of Olives. It appears frequently in biblical accounts. Travellers walk through the valley to see ancient rock-cut monuments, observe the historic landscape, and view the eastern city walls from below.

Getting There

From central Jerusalem, take public transit toward the Old City. From there, descend on foot into the valley via Lions' Gate or Dung Gate. The walk from the city walls down into the valley takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Suggested Duration

Allow 1 to 2 hours to walk along the main trail and inspect the historical features.

When to Visit

Morning or late afternoon is best to avoid high temperatures, as the valley has limited shade. Water occasionally flows through the channel during the winter rainy season. The valley path is rarely congested compared to sites inside the city walls, but paths can be rocky and steep.

Nearby Attractions

Several notable landmarks sit immediately adjacent to the valley or along the lower slopes of the Mount of Olives:

  • Tomb of Absalom (0 km) – located directly within the valley.
  • Gethsemane (0.3 km) – situated at the foot of the Mount of Olives.
  • Church of All Nations (0.3 km) – adjacent to Gethsemane.
  • Church of Mary Magdalene (0.3 km) – positioned slightly uphill on the slope.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Kidron Valley

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Good to visit alongside

Tomb of Absalom

Heritage & monuments

Tomb of Absalom

Absalom's Pillar is an ancient tomb monument in Jerusalem's Kidron Valley, carved entirely out of solid rock, steps included. Standing 18.5 meters tall, its intricate carving can be admired up close.

0.0 km away
Church of All Nations

Temples & religious sites

Church of All Nations

The Church of All Nations is a Catholic church beside the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives. It houses the rock where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest, drawing a steady stream of pilgrims.

0.3 km away
Church of Mary Magdalene

Temples & religious sites

Church of Mary Magdalene

The Church of Mary Magdalene is an Eastern Orthodox church on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, facing the Garden of Gethsemane across the Kidron Valley. It's a peaceful stop along the pilgrimage route through the holy sites.

0.3 km away
Gethsemane

Parks & gardens

Gethsemane

Gethsemane is a garden on the western slope of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, said to be where Jesus went with his disciples to pray. It is known as the site of his final prayer and arrest after the Last Supper, and remains a popular destination for pilgrims.

0.3 km away
Al-Aqsa Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Al-Aqsa Mosque

Al-Aqsa Mosque is a silver-domed mosque on the southern side of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Along with Mecca and Medina, it is considered one of Islam's three holiest sites and draws a steady stream of pilgrims and visitors.

0.3 km away
Moriah

Nature

Moriah

Moriah is a place named in the Old Testament, traditionally said to be where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac. It is believed to be the same site where Solomon later built the Temple, identified today with the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

0.3 km away