Ancient ritual bath complex found near Jerusalem's Temple Mount

Archaeologists have uncovered a well-preserved 2,000-year-old ritual bathing complex near Jerusalem's Temple Mount. The site, located in the Ophel area, was discovered by researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

The complex, built in the early first century A.D., features three large ritual baths, a plastered pool, and a paved plaza, along with an extensive water system. It was likely used by Jewish pilgrims visiting the ancient holy site.

Officials noted that one of the baths is exceptionally well-preserved, standing nearly 14 feet tall with its original vaulted stone ceiling and a water supply shaft. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem described the structure as rare in Jerusalem due to its location and condition.

Excavation directors Uzi Leibner and Orit Peleg-Barkat called the site a 'truly unparalleled phenomenon,' emphasizing its role in understanding Second Temple-period pilgrimage and rituals near the Temple Mount's gates.

The complex also shows evidence of Jerusalem's destruction by Roman forces in 70 A.D., with dozens of coins from the First Jewish Revolt found on-site. Beneath the complex, archaeologists uncovered an even older purification facility believed to date to the first century B.C.

Candida Moss, a theology professor at the University of Birmingham, noted that the discovery highlights the Jewish origins of Christian baptism. She explained that ritual bathing became increasingly common among Jews in the first century B.C. to A.D., influencing early Christian practices.