The Burnt House: A Window into Jerusalem's Second Temple Era
Tucked away in the streets of Jerusalem’s Old City lies the Burnt House, a remarkable archaeological site that provides an intimate glimpse into the life of a priestly family during the Second Temple period and stands as a silent witness to the catastrophic events of 70 CE.
Location
The Burnt House is located at 2 Tiferet Israel Street in the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City, approximately six meters beneath the current street level. This area, renowned for its historical and religious significance, is a short stroll from prominent landmarks such as the Western Wall and the Hurva Synagogue.
The Site's History
Uncovered in 1970 during extensive excavations led by archaeologist Nahman Avigad, the Burnt House provides a rare snapshot of Jerusalem’s Upper City before its destruction by the Romans. The house is believed to have belonged to the Kathros family—a priestly lineage mentioned in the Talmud. Artifacts such as stone vessels, a mikvah (ritual bath), and an inscribed stone weight bearing the name “Bar Kathros” suggest the family’s adherence to purity laws and their prominent social status.
What Can Be Found at the Site
Residential Layout: The excavated area covers approximately 55 square meters, featuring a small courtyard, four rooms, a kitchen, and a mikvah. The walls, preserved up to one meter in height, are coated with white plaster, offering insights into the architectural styles of the period.
Household Artifacts: An array of everyday items, including ceramic and stone vessels, oil lamps, and grinding stones, provides a glimpse into the domestic life of the era. The presence of stone kitchenware, preferred for their resistance to ritual impurity, underscores the occupants’ priestly status.
Evidence of Destruction: Charred wooden beams, burnt stones, and layers of ash vividly illustrate the intense fire that consumed the house. Notably, the discovery of a young woman’s forearm suggests the tragic human toll during the Roman siege.
Sources and Additional Information
The Burnt House in the Old City, Aish
Ritmeyer Archaeological Design
Nearby Sites
- The Herodian Quarter: Showcases luxurious mansions from the Second Temple period, reflecting the lifestyle of Jerusalem’s elite.
- The Cardo: An ancient Roman street that served as the main thoroughfare in Byzantine Jerusalem, now lined with modern shops and art galleries.
- The Broad Wall: A massive defensive wall built by King Hezekiah in the 8th century BCE, highlighting the city’s ancient fortifications.
- The Hurva Synagogue: A historic synagogue that has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, symbolizing the resilience of Jerusalem’s Jewish community.
