Rubio, Netanyahu, and Huckabee inaugurate fully exposed Pilgrimage Road in Jerusalem

Rubio called it “an extraordinary archaeological site,” framing his appearance as a celebration of shared heritage.

After years of excavation, Israel on Monday unveiled the fully exposed Pilgrimage Road in the City of David, a circa first-century route linking the Pool of Siloam to the foot of the Temple Mount. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended the evening ceremony alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee.

The road runs roughly 600 meters and is now open end-to-end, according to organizers.

Rubio called it “an extraordinary archaeological site,” framing his appearance as a celebration of shared heritage. The visit came during his trip to Israel for meetings with Netanyahu and other officials.

Netanyahu said the unveiling reflected the Jewish people’s ancient bond with Jerusalem and vowed the city would remain united. Huckabee praised the excavation as a moment that “lets the stones speak,” underscoring the continuity of Jewish presence in the city.

Archaeologists say the stepped street served as Jerusalem’s main thoroughfare for pilgrims during the Second Temple period. The Israel Antiquities Authority has led the dig with the City of David organization, which operates the national park site. The stretch from the Pool of Siloam up the Tyropoeon Valley to the mount measures about 600 meters and is approximately eight meters wide.

Rubio helps inagurate Pilgrim's Road

Monday’s inauguration also highlighted growing international recognition of the site. In January 2021, the US Embassy in Jerusalem, together with the US Commission for the Preservation of America’s Heritage Abroad, recognized the City of David as a testament to America’s Judeo-Christian heritage and founding principles. In June 2025, Argentina presented a commemorative plaque at the City of David during President Javier Milei’s visit, acknowledging the site’s significance.

The excavation has drawn criticism from Palestinians and international bodies that view the site, located in east Jerusalem’s Silwan neighborhood, as part of occupied territory and object to settler-led involvement in its operation. Rubio’s visit and the inauguration were described by opponents as politically charged, while organizers emphasized the project’s archaeological value.