Jerusalem Geography

Hinnom Valley
This valley formed the western boundary of the Upper City of Jesus’ time; it began along the Western Hill and ended where the Tyropean and Kidron Valleys meet.Just west of Jerusalem, this valley was at one time the city sewage dump, and the place where Judean kings sacrificed their children. The valley, with its filth, rottenness, and burning flesh, came to symbolize hell.

Kidron Valley
About three miles long, this deep wadi formed the eastern border of Jerusalem between David’s city and the Mount of Olives. During the reforms by Israel’s kings, idols and many other pagan objects were disposed of here. The spring of Gihon, the source of Hezekiah’s tunnel, and the garden of Gethsemane are in this valley.

Mount of Olives
This mountain, standing about 2,641 feet above sea level, stands east of Jerusalem across the Kidron Valley. It is approximately 325 feet higher than the Temple area and the highest peak in the area.Jesus entered Jerusalem, gave his final teaching, and ascended to heaven from here. Some scholars believe this may be the location for Jesus? return.

Tyropean Valley
This valley lay between David’s City and the Western Hill where the Upper City was located.Hezekiah expanded the city into this valley. The Western Wall of Herod’s Gentile Court was located here, as was the Pool of Siloam where Jesus sent a blind man to wash (John 9:1-2).

Western Hill
Once within the walls of ancient Jerusalem, the Western Hill was located at the southwest corner of the city.It is very sacred to the Jewish people because it is the traditional spot of David’s tomb. The upper room where Jesus ate the last supper is found here as well (Luke 22:1-38).