The Davidson Center is an archaeological park near the Dung gate and Western Wall around the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City. It is also known as the Archaeological Garden which researches and displays the many layers of discoveries made right there. You have to remember that Israel is bursting with antiques, hidden beneath the soil which are just waiting to be discovered. Outside, visitors can enjoy a walk around the park viewing the original stones that were thrown from the top of the Temple wall when it was destroyed in 70AD. It is truly one of the most amazing sights that I have seen since being here. The stones remain exactly where they fell on the ground. The park also consists of Robinson's Arch and the Herodian Street.
The stones that were thrown from the top of the wall. Still in the exact place where they fell.
IDF soldiers also touring the park.
The picture below describes the rock with the inscription engraved upon it, in the picture above.
Phones were provided so that we could listen to a detailed account of each location.
A Hebrew inscription was engraved and is visible in one of the ashlar blocks (shown above in the picture) under Robinson's Arch.
"You shall see and your heart shall rejoice. Their bones shall flourish like grass."
It appears to be a paraphrase of Isaiah 66:14:
When you see this, your heart will rejoice and you will flourish like grass.
I was so excited to find this but I had to zoom in with my phone to get this close.
In the following pictures, we are sitting on the original steps where Jesus would have walked up the southern steps to the Hulda gates to the Temple! The gates are now sealed.
Inside, the Davidson Center combines an exhibition of a rich archaeological content and computerised media, artefacts exhibitions and an illustrated and visual exhibition. The movie brings the past to life and reveals what it would have been like for the Jews to come to the Temple in Jerusalem to bring an offering to the Lord. It is really well done and certainly worth a visit. What amazes me is that this park was not here when I visited Jerusalem 18 years ago. It makes me wonder what other incredible ruins are waiting to be discovered!
If you want to read more about this park you can visit this website.
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