Ancient 2,000-Year-Old Aqueduct Discovered Near Jerusalem
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Archaeologists have uncovered a 300-meter section of a 2,000-year-old aqueduct near Jerusalem, believed to have been built by the Hasmoneans to supply water to the city. The sophisticated gravity-fed system, which originally ran 21 kilometers from Solomon's Pools, was used for centuries and underwent various modifications. The discovered segment reveals different construction phases, including an Ottoman-era clay pipe. The aqueduct will be preserved and integrated into the entrance of a new neighborhood being built by the Israel Land Authority, allowing public access to this significant historical engineering feat.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- A 300-meter section of a 2,000-year-old Hasmonean-era aqueduct was discovered south of Jerusalem.
- The aqueduct originally supplied water from Solomon's Pools to the Temple Mount using gravity.
- The ancient water system was utilized for centuries, with modifications including an Ottoman-era clay pipe.
- The discovery was made by the Israel Antiquities Authority during development of a new neighborhood.
- The aqueduct section will be preserved and integrated into the new neighborhood's entrance for public viewing.
- The find will be presented at an upcoming archaeology conference in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
An approximately 300-meter section of the Lower Jerusalem Aqueduct, believed to have been constructed during the Hasmonean period, has been unearthed in an archaeological excavation south of Kibbutz Ramat Rachel. The discovery was made by the Israel Antiquities Authority in an area where the Israel Land Authority is developing a new neighborhood.
This sophisticated engineering feat was part of an ancient water system that transported spring water from the Gush Etzion region and Solomon's Pools to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. According to excavation directors Dr. Benjamin Sturchen and Gil Fried, the aqueduct was likely built by the Hasmonean kings to supply water to the city. Its design was so effective that it was used intermittently for various periods until about 100 years ago. The entire aqueduct stretched approximately 21 kilometers from Solomon's Pools, south of Bethlehem, to Jerusalem, flowing at a very gentle gradient of about one meter per kilometer, relying solely on gravity.
The exposed section reveals different stages of the aqueduct's history. Initially, water flowed through a plastered channel. Approximately 500 years ago, during the Ottoman period, a clay pipe was laid within the ancient channel. The outer walls of the aqueduct were plastered, and stones were embedded into the wet plaster, creating a unique, rough surface along its length. These continuous repairs underscore the aqueduct's vital importance and the ongoing efforts to maintain Jerusalem's water supply.
The Israel Land Authority and the Israel Antiquities Authority are collaborating to preserve the ancient structure as an integral part of the developing urban landscape. The plan is to incorporate the aqueduct section into the main entrance of the new neighborhood, making it accessible for public viewing from all sides. Dr. Amit Ram, Director of the Jerusalem region at the IAA, described the aqueduct as an engineering marvel, noting that even with modern technology, such a project would require significant planning and effort. The IAA envisions creating a continuous park along the aqueduct from southern Jerusalem to the Old City.
Yehuda Eliyahu, Acting Director of the Israel Land Authority, stated that the discovery reminds them of the continuous chain of construction and development, emphasizing the authority's commitment to modern development while safeguarding heritage sites. Minister of Heritage, Rabbi Amichai Eliyahu, highlighted that the aqueduct's construction signifies forward-thinking leadership that enabled Jerusalem to accommodate more residents and pilgrims. He added that integrating the aqueduct into the new neighborhood continues this narrative of growth and allows future generations to connect with their heritage.
The discovery will be presented this week at the 19th "Innovations in the Archaeology of Jerusalem and its Surroundings" conference, organized by the Israel Antiquities Authority, Tel Aviv University, the Hebrew University, and the Israel Institute of Archaeology.
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