Acra

Welcome to one of the most significant archaeological sites in the ancient world, located right here in the heart of Jerusalem. As we stand amidst these deep excavation trenches, we are stepping into a mystery that has baffled…

As we carefully navigate the wooden walkways descending deeper into the excavation, we approach the ancient topographical boundary known as the Tyropoeon Valley. Look down toward the lower sections of the dig site, where the…

Moving away from the valley overlook, we now stand at the very base of the primary defensive perimeter, the large city wall. Run your hands over these massive, roughly hewn blocks of limestone. …

Just a few paces further along the large city wall, we encounter one of the most striking features of the entire complex, an amazing tower that abuts this city wall. Step into the semi-circular clearing where the foundation of…

As we continue our descent along the exterior of the fortification system, we find ourselves standing on a highly unusual, steeply angled surface. You are currently looking at the large, massive glacis. …

We now cross over the threshold of the large city wall and step into the interior space of the excavation, representing what was once the secure heart of the fortress. This area marks the interior of the stronghold that used to…

Our final stop within the main excavation trenches brings us to an area where the stratigraphy, the distinct layers of archaeological earth, tells a story of violent transition. Here, we examine the physical evidence that allows…

Before we reach the final stratigraphy layers, we must pause at the far edge of the excavation to examine the western defensive perimeter of the complex. The archaeological data clearly situates this entire fortification system…

As we ascend the wooden stairs and leave the deep trenches of the Acra excavation behind, let us take a moment to reflect on the monumental journey we have just undertaken. We have explored the massive fortification system that…