2,700-year-old biblical fortress in Jerusalem undergoes restoration
The citadel might have been part of a network of defensive structures to protect the capital at the time of the Kings of Judah.
Aerial view of the fortress on the French Hill before restoration (photo credit: SHAI HALEVI/IAA)
After many years of neglect, a 2,700-year-old Jerusalem
fortress dating back to the time of the biblical kings of Judah is
undergoing restoration, the Israel Antiquities Authority announced on
Monday.
Located in the modern-day French Hill
neighborhood, the approximately 18.5 x 13 meter citadel features an
open courtyard, and rooms on both sides. Built on the top of the hill at
an altitude of 832 meters, it was discovered at the end of the 1960s.
Experts believe it might have been part of a series of citadels that
were built to guard and protect Jerusalem during the First Temple
Period, as mentioned in several parts of the Bible.
“Rehoboam
dwelt in Jerusalem and built fortified towns in Judah,” reads a passage
in the 11th chapter of Chronicles II, referring to King Solomon’s son,
who is believed to have ruled over Judah in the 10th century BCE.
“He strengthened the fortified towns and put commanders in them,
along with stores of food, oil and wine, and shields and spears in every
town. He strengthened them exceedingly; thus Judah and Benjamin were
his.”
“Jotham was
25 years old when he became king, and he reigned 16 years in Jerusalem;
his mother’s name was Jerushah daughter of Zadok,” reads another passage
in chapter 27. “He built towns in the hill country of Judah, and in the
woods he built fortresses and towers.”
Conservation work in the fortress on the French Hill. credit: Yael Kalman/ Israel Antiquities Authority
Conservation work in the fortress on the French Hill. credit: Yael Kalman/ Israel Antiquities Authority
Jotham is believed to have lived in the eighth century BCE.
The fortress was built with large stones and employed impressive technology.
The restoration work is being carried out by a team of IAA
conservators with the participation of residents of the neighborhood as
part of a project to preserve and protect heritage sites by the
Jerusalem and Heritage Ministry.
“Preserving
heritage sites, developing them and passing them on to future
generations is a national right and duty,” said IAA director Eli
Escosido. “The Israel Antiquities Authority, together with the
‘Landmarks’ project of the Jerusalem and Heritage Ministry, sees great
importance in the community’s participation in the restoration of the
heritage sites near their home. This way two goals are achieved
together: The public saves our heritage assets, and at the same time,
they develop a direct connection with them.”
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