Archaeological excavations in Wadi Hilwah started during the late Ottoman rule. Charles Warren discovered the underground water system at the close of the 19th century (a site known as Warren’s Shaft), identified the site in the heart of Wadi Hilwah neighborhood as ancient Jerusalem, and called it “City of David”.

Ever since, many archaeologists of different nationalities have conducted excavations in the area. The locals never initiated the excavations, but they were always conducted with respect for them, and, as mentioned earlier, the residents enjoyed the visits of tourists. In the 70s Israeli archaeologists began to excavate in Wadi Hilwah, led by the renowned Prof. Yigal Shilo.