Akeldama Monument

Address: Akeldama (Field of Blood), Kidron Valley area, Jerusalem District, Israel/Palestine

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.”

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.

• 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.