The history of Sultan’s Pool is as diverse as Jerusalem itself.

It is an integral part of the Hinnom Valley, or Gei Ben-Hinnom, a place once known for ancient rituals and later referenced in biblical texts as a place of desolation. In recent years, efforts have been made to transform the valley into a public space for recreation and tourism, complete with walking paths and guided archaeological tours.

The Sultan’s Pool was initially constructed by the Romans as part of the city’s elaborate water system, it served as a crucial reservoir during the Byzantine period. The Crusaders expanded the pool, enhancing its capacity to serve as a significant water source for the city. Named after Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, who reconstructed it in the 16th century, the pool also functioned as an animal market during the Ottoman era, reflecting its dynamic role in the city’s daily life. In the 20th century, the pool was repurposed as an open-air performance venue, now hosting a variety of concerts, festivals, and cultural events that make it a lively part of Jerusalem’s contemporary scene.