About Dung Gate
The Dung Gate was built during the 16th century in the days of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. It is close to the Western Wall Plaza as well as to the City of David.
Origin of the Name
The name “Dung Gate” is found in the Book of Nehemiah and refers to one of the gates of Jerusalem in Nehemiah’s day. During that time, all the garbage as well as the ash and remains of sacrifices were taken out of the city through this gate and then burned in the Valley of Hinnom.
Dung Gate Today
That ancient “Dung Gate” may not have been the same as the one built in the 16th century. The 16th century gate was just a narrow opening in the wall, later expanded under Jordanian rule to accommodate vehicles. After the reunification of Jerusalem, this gate was further renovated.
- The word Dung refers to the original Hebrew name, Sha’ar Ha’ashpot which translates literally as the “Gate of Garbage” or “Ash Pot Gate”.
- The Dung Gate is known in Arabic as the Mughrabi Gate. The Mughrabis fought in Saladin’s army and then settled here.
- The Dung Gate is also called the Gate of Silwan since it is close to the Arab neighbourhood of Silwan.
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