Herodion Fortress Unveils Hasmonean Secrets and Mysterious Tunnels in Judean Desert
Herodion, a fortress perched on an isolated peak in the Judean Desert, reveals a rich history tied to the Hasmonean dynasty and King Herod. Likely built by John Hyrcanus or his son Alexander Jannaeus, the fortress was part of a strategic defense system controlling key routes between Jerusalem, Jericho, and the Dead Sea. Its location atop a 200-meter hill allowed dominance over the surrounding area.
A major challenge was securing water in this arid region, addressed by an advanced water system including reservoirs, large cisterns, a two-level aqueduct, and carved channels. Excavations uncovered walls, towers, ritual baths, grand halls, and architectural elements indicating the site also served as a palace with political and symbolic importance.
One dramatic tale linked to Herodion is that of an unnamed Hasmonean princess who sought refuge there during King Herod's rise. Despite her efforts to resist, Herod eventually captured the fortress, and tradition holds that the princess chose death over captivity. Herod later renovated Herodion, integrating it into his desert fortress network alongside sites like Masada and Herodium, even hosting Marcus Agrippa there. The fortress also functioned as a prison.
Nearby remains of siege works, including a camp and rampart, possibly date to the Bar Kokhba revolt centuries later, suggesting the fortress's continued military relevance. In the 1960s, two rock-cut stepped tunnels were discovered beneath the site, but their purpose remains unclear, with some speculating forced labor under Herod.
Today, Herodion is part of the "Derech Eretz Heritage" project, which allocates around 250 million shekels to develop, preserve, and make accessible over 70 heritage sites in Judea and Samaria. The initiative aims to connect the public with Israel's history through storytelling and experiential visits. Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu emphasized that Herodion exemplifies the project's goal to revive public awareness of Israel's historical landscape and legacy.
