Akeldama
Monument Ancient burial cave complex south of Jerusalem
Akeldama, also rendered Hakeldama, is a place in Jerusalem traditionally called the “Field of Blood” in Christian sources and associated with Judas Iscariot. It is also an archaeological area containing ancient burial remains.
Archaeological work at the site has identified burial caves and ossuaries dating to the Second Temple period, including human remains and some inscribed ossuaries. The site therefore combines religious tradition with material evidence of ancient burial practices.
In antiquity the area served as a burial ground; over time it acquired the Christian association recorded in the New Testament and later writings. The archaeological remains date chiefly to the 1st century CE.
Akeldama is located on the slopes near the eastern side of Jerusalem in the area traditionally associated with the Mount of Olives and the Kidron/Hinnom valleys.
- Biblical association: Associated in Christian tradition with the New Testament account of Judas Iscariot as the "Field of Blood."
How to Get to Akeldama #
Akeldama is located on the southeastern slope of the Old City of Jerusalem. It is best reached on foot from the Old City via the Kidron Valley routes or by taxi to nearby entrances; check access restrictions with local authorities.
Tips for Visiting Akeldama #
- Visit in the cooler months to avoid the intense daytime heat common in the region.
- Combine a trip to Akeldama with visits to nearby archaeological sites in Jerusalem for broader context.
- Respect local signage and cemetery rules-some areas can be sensitive or restricted.
Best Time to Visit Akeldama #
Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable times to visit the Jerusalem area and its surrounding archaeological sites.
Weather & Climate near Akeldama #
Akeldama's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Mediterranean - Hot-Summer Mediterranean climate with warm summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 5°C to 29°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (104 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 16°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm).
