Jerusalem, a city steeped in history and spirituality, boasts a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, and one of its most remarkable gems is the Southern Wall. This awe-inspiring structure, known as the Southern Wall or “HaKotel HaDromi” in Hebrew, is an integral part of the Temple Mount’s retaining wall, situated at its southernmost end. Built during King Herod’s ambitious expansion of the Temple Mount platform onto the Ophel, this ancient marvel has stood the test of time, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.
A Monumental Feat of Engineering
Stretching an impressive 922 feet (281 meters) in length, the Southern Wall’s scale is truly remarkable. Historian Josephus once likened its length to that of a Greek stadion, roughly a furlong. Visible from the east, it exhibits a subtle change in the plane of the eastern wall, known as the “Straight Joint.” Atop this southern extension once stood Herod’s Royal Stoa.
What makes this wall even more astonishing is the construction itself. Fashioned from colossal blocks of Jerusalem stone, each ashlar features a raised bossage margin, with such precision that a knife blade can’t slip between them. The attention to detail and craftsmanship are a testament to the skill of the builders.
Stepping into History
Approaching the Southern Wall, visitors are greeted by an immense flight of steps, painstakingly excavated by archaeologist Benjamin Mazar after 1967. These steps constitute the northernmost part of the pilgrims’ road, leading from the Pool of Siloam to the Temple Mount through the Double Gate and the Triple Gate. These are the very steps that Jesus of Nazareth and countless other pilgrims ascended during significant festivals such as Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot.
The unique design of these steps, with low risers (7 to 10 inches high) and spacious treads (12 to 35 inches deep), compelled pilgrims to tread with a deliberate, almost regal, pace. The Double and Triple Gates, together known as the Hulda Gates, served as the entry points to the temple precincts, bearing witness to generations of devout travelers.
Hidden Treasures Beneath the Southern Wall
Inside the Temple Mount, the original staircase and the intricately carved Herodian ceilings still stand, a testament to the enduring legacy of this site. These elements provide a vivid connection to the past, allowing us to imagine that Jesus himself once walked these hallowed grounds.
The interior of the gateway leading to the Double Gate is adorned with ornate columns and domes, showcasing intricate vines, rosettes, flowers, and geometric patterns. This stunning craftsmanship adorns every inch of this gateway, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
Unearthing History through Archaeology
Post-1967 archaeological excavations led by Benjamin Mazar and Meir Ben-Dov unveiled the Hulda Gates’ true purpose: they led to a grand staircase, serving as the primary entrance to the temple during the Roman era. These discoveries shed light on the importance of this site throughout history.
Additionally, outside the Southern Wall, archaeologists uncovered a complex of Umayyad administration buildings and palaces, preserving them as part of an archaeological park. The Umayyad Caliphate is believed to have repaired the Hulda Gates and Pilgrim stairs, which were damaged during the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE, to access the newly built Dome of the Rock.
Inscriptions and Repair Work
Near the Double Gate, a reused marble slab with an inscription from a statue of Emperor Antoninus Pius (138–161 AD) was found. This inscription offers a glimpse into the history of Aelia Capitolina and its successive rulers.
In recent years, concerns over the structural integrity of the Southern Wall arose due to a noticeable bulge. Unauthorized construction beneath the el-Marwani Mosque was identified as the culprit. To address this issue, a compromise involving Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and the Muslim Waqf was reached, with Jordan managing the repairs. However, the repair work has drawn criticism for its departure from historical restoration practices, resulting in a noticeable contrast in color and texture compared to the original stone.
Southern Wall: Points of Interest
Numerous points of interest are scattered along the Southern Wall, both within the al-Aqsa Compound and outside its bounds. Highlights include:
Outside of the Wall:
- The Ophel, is an extension of the City of David, the oldest part of Jerusalem.
- The Southern Steps, a monumental flight of stairs on the southern side of the Temple Mount.
- Remnants of Fatimid period fortifications.
- Umayyad period residential and administrative structures.
- The Huldah Gates, both eastern and western.
Inside the Wall:
- The al-Fakhariyya Minaret.
- The White Mosque, also known as the Women’s Mosque, is now the al-Aqsa Library.
- The al-Aqsa Mosque, or al-Qibli Mosque.
- The Musalla of Omar, a musalla in the east wing of the al-Qibli Mosque.
- The Miḥrāb Dāwūd, a miḥrāb in the wall.
The Southern Wall of Jerusalem is a testament to human ingenuity and spiritual significance, inviting travelers to step back in time and connect with the city’s rich history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a pilgrim seeking a deeper connection, this ancient marvel is a must-visit destination in the heart of Jerusalem.
