New discovery in the Old City of Jerusalem: a fragment of the Hasmonean wall changes the understanding of the era

Archaeologists in the Old City stumbled upon a section of an ancient city wall — a discovery that unexpectedly expands the understanding of Jerusalem’s defensive systems during the Hasmonean period. This was reported by the Israel Antiquities Authority. For a region where every inch of uncovered layer changes history, this discovery proved particularly significant.

The work was conducted in the area of the Tower of David, on the Kishle site. There, among sandy layers and ruined structures, researchers discovered a massive fragment of fortification: over forty meters long and about five meters wide. This is the so-called First Wall — mentioned in ancient sources, but until recently it was believed that its traces had disappeared or were absorbed by later constructions.

The excavations are being conducted as part of the preparation for a new archaeological wing of the Tower of David Museum.

What the researchers say

Large hewn stones, even fitting of blocks — all this immediately refers to the Hasmonean period. Excavation leaders Amit Re’em and Marion Sindel emphasize: the original height of the wall could have exceeded ten meters. Only the lower levels have survived to this day, but their condition allows for an assessment of the scale of work and the precision of ancient builders.

Similar fortifications have been found before — in the area of Mount Zion and in the City of David. But the new fragment turned out to be larger and better preserved.

Who destroyed the wall

The version of “natural destruction” has been set aside. Researchers lean towards the idea that the dismantling was intentional.
There are several possible reasons. One is the agreement between John Hyrcanus I and Antiochus VII, under which part of Jerusalem’s fortifications could have been destroyed. Another is the policy of King Herod, who sought to distance himself from the symbols of Hasmonean power and might have ordered the wall to be dismantled.

Neither theory has yet received exclusive confirmation, but both fit into the historical context.

Traces of wars

Near this site, catapult stones, arrowheads, and lead bullets were previously found. These finds are associated with the siege of Antiochus VII. The wall fragment retained traces of impacts — heavy projectiles settled at its base, emphasizing the strength of the construction.

Some of the discovered artifacts are already on display in the museum galleries of the Tower of David.

Why the discovery is important

Israel’s Minister of Heritage Amichai Eliyahu noted in a comment that such discoveries allow for the restoration of the historical line of events, including those described in Hanukkah stories. The material remnants of fortifications confirm the sequence of eras and provide a rare opportunity to see what Jerusalem looked like before major political changes.

Every new element of the archaeological mosaic changes the view of the city, where layers of history literally lie on top of each other — and the development of the excavations is being followed by the editorial team of NAnews — News of Israel | Nikk.Agency.