A 2,000-year-old aqueduct near Jerusalem, used during Jesus' time, was uncovered, revealing ancient engineering and possible connections to early Christian history.
Ancient aqueduct section found near Jerusalem
A section of an ancient aqueduct, built over 2,000 years ago, was discovered near Jerusalem on October 11. The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced the discovery of a 300-meter segment of the aqueduct during excavations for a new neighborhood near kibbutz Ramat Rachel.Aqueduct linked to Mount of the Temple
The aqueduct transported water from sources in the hills south of Bethlehem to the Mount of the Temple, supplying the growing population of Jerusalem. It was likely built during the time of the Hasmonean kings, according to excavation directors Benyamin Storchan, Gil Freid, and Rotem Cohen.Engineering feat of ancient times
The aqueduct extended nearly 21 kilometers, using gravity to move water from Solomon's Pools in the Gush Etzion area to the Mount of the Temple. It included tunnels, sloped systems, and maintenance features, which archaeologist Amit Re’em called "remarkable" for the planning and design required.Historical and religious significance
Douglas Estes, an associate professor of religion, believes the aqueduct was built around the same time as Rome's hydraulic systems and that Jesus and early Christians may have used it during their visits to Jerusalem. While no direct evidence has been found, historical records support this view.Future excavation plans
So far, only 2 kilometers of the aqueduct have been studied. Gil Freid plans to continue excavations using satellite mapping to trace the remaining route. The findings were presented at a recent Jerusalem archaeology conference.Preservation amid construction
The IAA and Israeli Land Authority plan to preserve the aqueduct section and incorporate it into the new neighborhood, which will eventually include 1,800 housing units. However, some international organizations have expressed concerns about the project.
