Tomb of Absalom 🇮🇱

Located in Jerusalem's Kidron Valley just steps from the Mount of Olives slope, the Tomb of Absalom—also known as Absalom's Pillar or Yad Avshalom—is an ancient 20-meter monumental rock-cut tomb dated to the 1st century AD. Traditionally ascribed to King David's rebellious son, this striking Second Temple-period monument actually features architectural elements introduced centuries after Absalom lived, including Greek Ionic half-columns, a Doric frieze, an Egyptian cornice, and a unique ashlar-built conical roof topped with a carved lotus flower. As you explore the site, you will see how the freestanding structure combines a solid monolithic lower half hewn directly from bedrock with a hollow upper section designed as a nefesh (funeral monument).

Behind it lies the interconnected Cave of Jehoshaphat burial system. Inside, a built entrance above the seam line leads down a short staircase to an empty 2.4-meter square burial chamber with arcosolium graves. Look closely at the exterior walls to spot irregular Byzantine-era openings and deciphered 4th-century inscriptions attributing the tomb to biblical figures like Simeon and Zechariah, father of John the Baptist.

It offers an incredible glimpse into Jerusalem's rich architectural evolution, ancient traditions, and layered history.

What to see at Tomb of Absalom

• Standing 20 meters tall, featuring a monolithic rock-cut base and ashlar masonry upper roof.
• Blending Ionic half-columns, a Doric frieze, an Egyptian cornice, and a tholos-style drum.
• Forming a single unified plan with the adjacent Cave of Jehoshaphat burial cave system.
• Bearing 4th-century Byzantine inscriptions referencing biblical figures like Simeon and Zechariah.

Visiting tips

Note that despite local legend involving Napoleon, the top of the monument is not damaged but intentionally carved to resemble a lotus flower.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Tomb of Absalom is easy to reach on Jerusalem’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Tower of David and Walls of Jerusalem. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Jerusalem travel guide.