A spellbinding history of the hidden world below the Holy City—a saga of biblical treasures, intrepid explorers, and political upheaval. In 1863, a French senator arrived in Jerusalem to unearth relics from biblical times and discovered an ancient grave he claimed belonged to an Old Testament queen. This find sparked global interest, inspiring many to explore the city’s storied past. Over the past century and a half, Jerusalem has attracted fortune seekers, missionaries, archaeologists, and zealots eager to extract its biblical heritage. Their efforts have profoundly impacted our understanding of the city’s history and its contentious present. The quest to reclaim ancient Jewish heritage has ignited violent riots and hindered international peace efforts, serving as a means to assert claims over this contested city. Today, the underground landscape of Jerusalem remains a battleground in the struggle for control above. This narrative takes readers into the tombs, tunnels, and trenches of the Holy City, bringing to life the remarkable individuals who have explored its depths. Acclaimed journalist Andrew Lawler illustrates how their pursuits have shaped the conflict over modern Jerusalem and could offer a pathway for coexistence among its diverse peoples and faiths.
