Byzantine Arch Discovered

However, another arch, which dates back to the Byzantine Period (AD 313–636), has been discovered. It is believed by archaeologists to be an entranceway from a previously unknown side street to the Cardo, the main street at the time. The arch is 3.7 meters (12.1 feet) across, 1.3 meters (4.3 feet) thick, 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height, and is made from hewn stones. Archaeologists have said that this is a rare and important find.

Underneath the arch was found a water channel and, very close to the arch, mikvot (Jewish ritual baths) from the Second Temple Period (535 BC–AD 70). Builders and archaeologists have also unearthed more modern finds at the site, including mortar shells and ammunition from the 1948 Jewish defenders of the Old City.

It took nine years to build the first Hurva Synagogue, which was completed in 1864. In 2005, the Israeli government announced plans to rebuild the synagogue exactly as it appeared before the Jordanian destruction. It is expected to take four years and NIS 28 million (US $6.2 million) to complete.

By Will King, Correspondent, Israel Mosaic Radio