Massive Fortification Protected the Elite in Jerusalem
Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery at the City of David in the Jerusalem Walls National Park. After 150 years of research, a massive fortification has been uncovered that protected the kings of Jerusalem. This fortification, a gigantic moat, was discovered during excavations at the Givati Parking Lot by the Israel Antiquities Authority and Tel Aviv University. Measuring at least nine meters (29.5 feet) deep and 30 meters (98.4 feet) wide, this monumental structure offers new insights into the ancient city’s defenses.
Uncovering Jerusalem’s Northern Fortification
According to an IAA statement, the moat, created by extensive quarrying, formed a massive channel separating the City of David from the Temple Mount and the Ophel area. The steep perpendicular cliffs on both sides made it impassable, serving as a formidable barrier.
While the exact date of its construction remains uncertain, evidence suggests its use during the Kingdom of Judah, nearly 3,000 years ago, starting with King Josiah. The moat basically split Jerusalem in two, dividing the southern residential areas from the ruling Acropolis in the north, where the palace and temple were situated.
According to Prof. Yuval Gadot from Tel Aviv University and Dr. Yiftah Shalev from the Israel Antiquities Authority, the creation of the moat was a large-scale operation designed to alter the natural landscape, demonstrating the power and engineering capabilities of Jerusalem’s rulers.
Area of excavation where the moat has been located at the City of David, Jerusalem. (Eliyahu Yanai, Eric Marmor, Maor Ganon, City of David/IAA)
Revisiting Past Excavations
The discovery has prompted a reexamination of past excavation reports, including those by British archaeologist Kathleen Kenyon in the 1960s. Kenyon had noted an unusual rock slope in an area east of the current excavation site, which she believed to be a natural valley. This new discovery suggests it was actually part of the same moat, extending the structure across at least 70 meters (229.7 feet) from west to east. This realization has sparked renewed discussions about biblical terms related to Jerusalem’s topography, such as the Ophel and the Millo.
Historical Significance and Engineering Marvel
The moat’s construction likely dates back to significant periods in Jerusalem’s history, possibly as early as the Middle Bronze Age (around 3,800 years ago). If so, it was intended to protect the city’s northern flank, the only weak point of the City of David slope. Regardless of its exact origin, the moat was certainly in use during the First Temple period (ninth century BC), serving as a clear buffer between the city’s residential and upper sectors.
Jerusalem, built on a narrow, steep ridge, was naturally divided by hills and valleys, making movement between different areas difficult. Royal construction projects often aimed to reshape the city’s topography, as mentioned in the biblical account of King Solomon building up the Millo (1 Kings 11:27).
Impact of the Discovery
This monumental discovery sheds new light on ancient Jerusalem’s urban planning and defensive strategies. The ongoing excavations, funded by the City of David Foundation, continue to reveal the city’s historical layers, providing vivid insights into its biblical past. Eli Escusido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, expressed awe at the achievements of ancient builders who “literally moved mountains and hills” to create such formidable defenses.
The findings will be presented at the City of David’s “Jerusalem Studies Experience” Conference in early August, promising to offer more detailed revelations about this significant archaeological breakthrough.
Top image: View of the ongoing excavation, Jerusalem. Source: Eliyahu Yanai, Eric Marmor, Maor Ganon, City of David/ IAA
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