What It Is About

The Israeli Antiquities Authority recently made a significant archaeological discovery on the eastern slope of the City of David, located within the Jerusalem Walls National Park. A noteworthy structure has been unearthed, believed to date back to the 8th century BCE, coinciding with the era when the Kings of Judah reigned.

Why It Matters

This excavation illuminates the rich historical tapestry of Jerusalem, showcasing tangible evidence of ancient Jewish life and religious practices as observed through an oil press, winepress, and ritual altars. This not only strengthens the historical connection of the Jewish people to this land but also enriches global historical and cultural narratives.

The Details

The structure measures around 220 square meters, encompassing eight intricately designed rock-hewn rooms. The presence of various installations has sparked considerable scholarly interest, with ritual activities inferred from artifacts like a carved altar and a large standing stone, or “masseba.”

Community Reactions

As conveyed by Israel’s Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu, these findings affirm Jerusalem’s long-standing significance to Jewish heritage. This continuous thread of history is pivotal in understanding the development of the cultural and spiritual landscape of ancient Israel.

Historical Context

The City of David holds in its depths the secrets of Jerusalem’s past. The ongoing excavation, led by skilled archaeologist Eli Shukron, stands on the shoulders of explorers like Montague Parker, who in 1909 first uncovered parts of this architectonic marvel in his quest for historical treasures described in biblical texts.

Local Reactions and Concerns

While these discoveries enrich historical scholarship, they also stir local tensions given the site’s proximity to Silwan, an area sensitive to geopolitical dynamics between Jewish and Muslim communities in East Jerusalem.

This story was first published on jpost.com.