For the first time in nine years, an ancient tomb complex in east Jerusalem is set to reopen to the public.

The complex, known as the 'Tombs of the Kings', is a 2,000-year-old archaeological site located near Jerusalem's Old City and was thought to be the burial place of King David and King Solomon.

Recent research suggests that they are more likely to be the burial place of members of the Queen Helena dynasty, who converted to Judaism in the time of Christ.

The French-owned historical ruins have been under renovation since 2010, costing around a million euros or $1.1 million.

The tombs have been a topic of dispute between Israel and the French authorities, as many Jews consider the land to be the holy burial site of their ancestors and have demanded the right to pray there.

After the excavation int he 1860's, the tomb was purchased by the Pereire brothers, a Jewish banking family in Paris that would later hand the property over to France.

The graves themselves will remain closed to the public for conservation and safety reasons.

No more than 15 visitors will be allowed entry to the funeral site at a time for a maximum of 45 minutes and the French consulate notes that there will be a need for “proper dress".