Cave of Machpelah

According to biblical and Islamic traditions, the Cave of Machpelah in Hebron is the burial site of the biblical patriarchs and matriarchs: Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and Jacob and Leah. Abraham purchased the cave from Ephron the Hittite as a family tomb, as detailed in the Book of Genesis. It is considered the second holiest site in Judaism.

The site is called the Ibrahimi Mosque because it holds immense significance in Islam, which reveres Abraham (Ibrahim) as a major prophet. Muslims built a massive mosque complex over the cave during the Islamic era, most notably renovated by the Mamluks in the 13th century. The building is consequently divided to serve both Jewish and Muslim worshippers.

The actual underground caverns of the Cave of Machpelah are generally closed to the public, though there are a few narrow shafts where visitors can look down into the subterranean spaces. A small opening in the floor of a shrine is traditionally believed to be the entrance to the cave. Excavations have been heavily restricted due to the site's extreme religious sensitivity.

The massive Herodian structure over the cave is divided into two main sections, a Jewish side and a Muslim side, which operate under strict security agreements. On most days, both communities can access their respective areas, though Muslims control the larger central halls. During specific religious holidays, the entire building is often opened exclusively to one faith.