No, the ancient city of Sodom, as it was known biblically, no longer exists as a physical city. However, formations identified as "the Pillar of Salt" are located in regions geographically associated with the traditional area of Sodom.
The biblical narrative describes Lot's wife being turned into a pillar of salt near Sodom. Today, two primary salt formations are commonly associated with this account and shown to visitors.
Current Locations of Salt Pillars
There are distinct salt formations widely recognized or presented as the "Pillar of Salt" or "Lot's wife":
| Name/Association | Geographical Location | Modern Day Country | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot's wife | Near the Dead Sea, at Mount Sodom | Israel | This prominent geological feature is a pillar of salt near the Dead Sea. |
| Second Formation | Across the Dead Sea, near St Lot Monastery | Jordan | This formation is shown to tourists and is not far from the ruins of a Byzantine monastery dedicated to St Lot. |
Cultural and Religious Significance
The enduring presence of these unique salt formations holds cultural and religious importance. According to the Talmud, a blessing is traditionally recited at the place where the pillar of salt is believed to be located, underscoring its historical and spiritual significance. These sites serve as a tangible link to ancient narratives and continue to be points of interest for visitors and scholars alike.
