Monumental baths reveal where pilgrims may have purified themselves before entering Jerusalem's Temple
A monumental complex of ritual baths, most likely used by Jewish pilgrims visiting the Temple in Jerusalem, has been uncovered at the foot of the Temple Mount. Dating to the late Second Temple period (first century BCE–70 CE), the exceptionally well-preserved complex includes three large ritual baths (mikva'ot), a monumental plastered pool, a paved plaza and an extensive water system.
A significant archaeological discovery has been made at the foot of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, potentially shedding light on the rituals and preparations of Jewish pilgrims before entering the Temple during the Second Temple period. The complex, spanning about 280 square meters, includes a central pool and several mikvaot, or ritual purification baths, which were likely used by pilgrims to cleanse themselves before entering the holy site.
The site's location near the "Triple Gate" and the "Double Gate" suggests that it played a crucial role in the ancient pilgrimage process. The discovery of drain holes in the mikvaot's floors indicates that they were connected to an extensive drainage system, suggesting a permanent source of running water. This complex, found during a five-season excavation led by Prof. Uzi Leibner and Prof. Orit Peleg-Barkat of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem's Institute of Archaeology, provides valuable insight into the religious practices and infrastructure of ancient pilgrims.
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