It’s a groundbreaking find.
A significant archaeological find was made by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) in the City of David, revealing a structure dating back to the First Temple Period. The structure, used for religious rituals, consists of eight rock-cut rooms. Among the items found inside were a standing stone (matzeva), olive oil and winepresses, a carved installation with a drainage channel, and floor markings whose purpose is not yet clear. This structure was likely part of the broader religious practices in the area during the time, contributing to rituals that involved the use of oil, wine, and offerings.
In a small cave nearby, a collection of artifacts from the 8th century BCE was uncovered, including cooking pots, jars with Hebrew inscriptions, loom weights, scarabs, and grinding stones. Eli Shukron, the excavation leader, explained that the structure ceased functioning during the reign of King Hezekiah, which aligns with the biblical account of Hezekiah’s religious reforms. These reforms centralized worship at the Temple in Jerusalem and abolished other local worship sites across Judah, which included this structure.
The findings suggest that this site was likely abandoned during the 8th century, as the area was sealed with material from that time. The standing stone and other preserved artifacts indicate the structure’s importance before its abandonment. The reforms under Hezekiah, described in the Bible, included eliminating idols and centralizing worship at the Jerusalem Temple, reflecting his efforts to consolidate religious practices.
The structure discovered is unique for its type in Jerusalem and among the few similar findings in Israel. It measures approximately 220 square meters, highlighting its scale and the complexity of religious activities conducted there. Ze’ev Orenstein, a director at the City of David, emphasized the enduring historical importance of these discoveries, which continue to deepen the understanding of Jerusalem’s role in biblical history.
This discovery further affirms the Jewish people’s longstanding connection to Jerusalem, with tangible evidence that supports the biblical narrative and demonstrates the city’s religious and historical significance over the millennia. The continued excavation in the City of David offers valuable insights into the ancient practices that shaped the city’s history and its central role in Jewish culture.