耶路撒冷卡尔多街

Cardo Street (also spelled Cargo) is a historic street in Jerusalem, originally constructed by the Romans in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. It extended from the Damascus Gate near Hadrian’s Column straight south toward the southern walls of the city, forming the main north–south thoroughfare. At the intersection with the perpendicular Via Decumanus, a Forum served as a central hub of public and commercial activity.

In Roman times, Cardo Street was over 22 meters wide, with a central roadway of about 12 meters and covered colonnades on both sides for pedestrians and shops. Over the centuries, the street gradually narrowed and became overbuilt, though it remained an important commercial axis. Today, only fragments of the Roman Cardo survive, visible in archaeological excavations in the Jewish Quarter between the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Western Wall. Visitors can see antique columns reaching approximately 5 meters in height. Entrance to these excavations is free.

During the Byzantine period in the 6th century AD, the street retained its importance, connecting the Church of the Holy Sepulcher with the Church of Nea and stretching across the city from the northern to the southern fortress walls. Later, during the Crusader period, many of the shops lining the covered street were constructed, giving Cardo the appearance it retains today.

Currently, Cardo Street functions as a narrow covered street (gallery) with numerous souvenir shops and small stores, preserving the commercial character of its Roman predecessor.

Quick facts:

• Original construction: 2nd century AD under Emperor Hadrian.
• Original width: ~22 meters; central roadway: ~12 meters.
• Location: Jewish Quarter, Jerusalem.
• Notable remains: Roman columns, fragments of colonnades.
• Modern use: Covered street with shops and souvenir stalls.
• Recommended visit time: 15–20 minutes.
• Access: Walk from Jaffa Gate along David Street to reach Cardo.

Cardo Street represents a living connection to Jerusalem’s Roman and Byzantine past, integrating archaeological heritage into the modern urban fabric.