Jerusalem Past and Present

1st Century Street South of the Western Wall

I am often asked where today's pilgrim or student might find 1st century Jerusalem. While there will always be disagreement, several locations and structures can be identified for exploration.

The Jerusalem Archaeological Park provides the eager visitor with several.  Known also as the Davidson Center, one accesses the park just inside the Dung Gate.

Upon entering the site, turn left and walk a short distance to the southwest corner of Temple Mount.  The 1st century street follows the wall of Temple Mount.  The stones which you still see along the street are what remains from structures which once stood atop the Temple platform.

Shops can be found along the base of the wall and along the street.  Such businesses no doubt provided both locals and pilgrims to Jerusalem in the 1st century with what was needed for life and worship in the Temple. 

There is an excellent video in Davidson Center depicting what might have been found in this area of 1st century Jerusalem.  A second video tells the story of the various archaeological expeditions that have unearthed this sacred space.