Archaeologists in Jerusalem have unearthed a "monumental" structure referenced in two books of the Bible, revealing an ancient moat over 3,000 years old in the City of David, one of history's oldest cities.
For 150 years, researchers sought to prove the biblical division of the city, and they have now uncovered the moat that separated the southern residential area from the northern upper city.
According to The Mail Online, the moat, approximately 30 feet deep and nearly 100 feet wide with steep cliffs on each side, made it impassable. This significant find, confirmed to date back to the Iron Age, aligns with descriptions in the Book of Kings and the Book of Samuel, referring to the city's division into Ophel and Millo.
Researchers at the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) told the outlet: "This dramatic discovery opens up renewed discussions about biblical terms referring to Jerusalem's topography, such as the Ophel and the Millo."
One biblical reference to these terms can be found in the First Book of Kings, where King Solomon is noted for building the 'Millo' and fortifying the City of David.
The City of David, historically called Bethlehem, is regarded as the birthplace of Jesus and the foundation of Jerusalem, built by King David to unite Israel under one capital. The city was strategically positioned on a narrow, steep ridge, overlooking hills and valleys that complicated movement between regions.
The structure was initially discovered in the 1960s by British archaeologist Kathleen Kenyon, who identified the moat near today's Givati Parking Lot. Kenyon initially mistook the formation for a natural valley, but it was later confirmed as part of the moat curving westward.
Dr Yiftah Shalev, an excavation director, highlighted the moat's historical usage: "It is not known when the moat was originally cut, but evidence suggests it was utilised during the centuries when Jerusalem was the capital of the Kingdom of Judah, starting with King Josiah.
"During those years, the moat separated the southern residential area from the ruling acropolis in the north, where the palace and temple were located."
The IAA confirmed that construction plans like this typically date back to the Middle Bronze Age, about 3,800 years ago. Dr Shalev added that he was "confident" that the moat was used during the time of the First Temple and the Kingdom of Judah.
According to researchers, the moat was designed to alter the City of David's topography, showcasing the power and defensive capabilities of Jerusalem's rulers.
Eli Escusido, Director of the IAA, remarked on the excavation's impact, saying these discoveries are "shedding new and vivid light on biblical literature".
He added: "Standing at the bottom of this giant excavation, surrounded by enormous hewn walls, one cannot help but feel wonder and appreciation for those ancient people who, about 3,800 years ago, literally moved mountains and hills."