This is a fascinating piece of news for excavators, historians and anyone who is in love with history, excavation and anything to do with unravelling the greatest mysteries (something like knowing more about life on Mars or may be experiencing The Mummy in real!).
According to archaeologists and researches at Israel Antiquities Authority, the biggest historical, we might as well add geographical and archaeological mystery that was driving everyone nuts is seeing the light of the day.
In an absolutely striking development, archaeologists claim to have unearthed the remains of the Greek fortress of Acra from under the parking lot of City of David (in the Jerusalem Walls National Park).
For centuries, historians and archaeologists have been arguing, debating and discussing the exact location of the fortress of Acra. In fact, the search for the ruins and other evidence has been going on for almost a century now. It is said that the fortress was built over two thousand years ago. Legends say, the stronghold was built so that Antiochus IV could inspect and monitor any activity on the Temple Mount.
Wikipedia says the fortress of Acra was a fortified compound in Jerusalem built by Greek ruler Antiochus Epiphanes, ruler of the Seleucid Empire, following his sack of the city in 168 BCE. The fortress played a significant role in the events surrounding the Maccabean Revolt and the formation of the Hasmonean Kingdom. It was destroyed by Simon Maccabeus during this struggle.
The Sensational Findings And What They Establish
In recent months, by retrieving artefacts ranging from coins and sling stones to wine jars and bronze arrowheads at the site, excavators say that they have been able to cite evidence of the citadel’s chronology and also hint at the non-Jewish identity of its inhabitants. With these findings, they have also been able to reconstruct the layout of the settlement for the first time.
Turned out to be a marvellous day for the historians and excavators.
Story inputs: USA Today, CNN International
Cover Image Source: Wikipedia