Interview: The Moat of Ancient Jerusalem

View of the moat in the time of Solomon from the East.
Julia Goddard/Armstrong Institute of Biblical Archaeology

The Givati Parking Lot excavations at the northwestern edge of the City of David have upended our ideas about what ancient Jerusalem looked like. A sensational new discovery has revealed the city had a moat. Not one that contained water but rather a monumental artificial valley that separated the northern part of the city (the Ophel and Temple Mount) from the southern region (the City of David), serving as a distinguishing feature of the city during the days of the biblical kings.

On today’s program, host Christopher Eames interviews Givati Parking Lot excavations co-director Dr. Yiftah Shalev to find out the latest about this astonishing topographical feature being uncovered at the site.

Let the Stones Speak

Show Notes

An Early Iron Age Moat in Jerusalem Between the Ophel and the Southeastern Ridge/City of David

The Moat of Ancient Jerusalem

Top 10 Biblical Archaeology Discoveries of 2023

Mysterious Bedrock Cuts From the First Temple Period Jerusalem