A team of archaeologists has recently discovered a colossal 2,800-year-old dam in the City of David, Jerusalem. This significant find is located just near the spot where Jesus is believed to have healed a blind man.
The Gospel of John recounts that Jesus instructed the blind man to wash in the Pool of Siloam. This pool, which resides within the Jerusalem Walls National Park and holds significant biblical importance, was rediscovered in 2004.
The event is detailed in John 9:10–11: “‘How then were your eyes opened?’ they asked. He replied, ‘The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.’”
The discovery was revealed on August 30, following a collaborative excavation by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) and the Weizmann Institute of Science.
The dam, dating back to the 9th century BC, is believed to have been constructed during the reign of either King Joash or King Amaziah.
This structure is now considered the largest ancient dam ever found in Israel and the oldest known in Jerusalem. It is an impressive stone construction, measuring approximately 39 feet tall, 69 feet long, and 26 feet wide.
By analyzing twigs and branches found in the mortar, scientists were able to date its construction to between 805 and 795 BC.
The purpose of the dam appears to have been a response to ancient Jerusalem’s climate challenges.
“The dam was designed to collect waters from the Gihon Spring as well as floodwaters flowing down the main valley of ancient Jerusalem,” stated the excavation directors.
They further explained that the data pointed to a period of low rainfall in the region, punctuated by short, intense storms leading to potential flooding. The establishment of such large-scale water systems was likely a strategic response to these environmental conditions.
Eli Escusido, director of the IAA, described it as “one of the most impressive and significant First Temple-period remains in Jerusalem,” noting, “In recent years, Jerusalem has been revealed more than ever before… and many surprises still await us.”
This discovery follows another significant finding of an underwater city near the supposed resting place of Noah’s Ark—a discovery that could potentially alter traditional biblical narratives.
Europe’s equivalent of the legendary city of Atlantis is submerged 85 feet under the waters of Lake Van, near Gevaş. This location is about 150 miles from Mount Ararat, the traditional resting place of Noah’s Ark after the flood.