Pools of Solomon

The pools of Solomon were water-storage pools accredited to King Solomon. Solomon made pools for watering his vineyards, gardens, parks, and orchards (Ecclesiastes 2:4–6). But their location is uncertain. The so-called pools of Solomon are in the valley of Etham. This is about 16.1 kilometers (10 miles) south of Jerusalem and a little south of Bethlehem.

The three reservoirs, which are somewhat rectangular in shape, are at different levels. They vary in size. The highest one is the smallest and the lowest one is the largest. The lower pool is about 177.4 meters (582 feet) long, 45.1 to 63.1 meters (148 to 207 feet) wide, and 15.2 meters (50 feet) deep. The small pool is also the most shallow. It is only 4.6 meters (15 feet) deep.

The pools are part rock-cut and part built of masonry. Channels or conduits connect them. The lower end of the biggest pool serves as a dam. Springs and run-off rainwater water supply them. The estimated capacity of all three pools is about 151.4 million liters (40 million gallons).

See also Aqueduct.