What is the significance of the Hasmonean wall found in Jerusalem?

The Hasmonean wall is significant as the longest continuous ancient wall foundation discovered in Jerusalem, potentially providing evidence of a 2,100-year-old ceasefire.

Why was the Hasmonean wall dismantled?

Experts theorize it was dismantled as part of a 2,100-year-old ceasefire agreement or to serve as a foundation for King Herod's palace.

Where was the ancient Jerusalem wall discovered?

The wall was discovered during excavations beneath an abandoned wing of the Kishleh building, now part of the Tower of David Museum in Jerusalem's Old City.

Home / Science / Jerusalem's Ancient Wall Reveals Ceasefire Clue

Jerusalem's Ancient Wall Reveals Ceasefire Clue

9 Dec

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Summary

Longest continuous Hasmonean wall foundations found in Jerusalem.
Wall's dismantled state suggests possible 2,100-year-old ceasefire agreement.
Excavation site beneath Tower of David Museum reveals historical layers.

Jerusalem's Ancient Wall Reveals Ceasefire Clue

Archaeologists have concluded the excavation of the longest continuous ancient wall foundations ever discovered in Jerusalem, dating back to the Hasmonean Kingdom.

This significant section, found beneath the Tower of David Museum, spans nearly 50 meters and exhibits evidence of being purposefully dismantled to a uniform height. Experts theorize this may be the archaeological proof of a 2,100-year-old ceasefire agreement detailed by ancient historian Flavius Josephus, where Jerusalem's fortifications were razed as part of a deal.

Alternatively, some suggest the dismantling could be linked to King Herod's construction of his palace. The site also revealed layers from later periods, including a 19th-century military base, dye pits, and graffiti from former prison cells, highlighting Jerusalem's layered history.