What if this unassuming parking lot held secrets of Jerusalem’s past? Welcome to the Givati Parking Lot dig. It is more than just a parking area. It is an active archaeological site. This is one of the largest excavation sites in Israel. The Givati Parking Lot dig covers over 3,500 square meters.
Here at the Givati Parking Lot dig, archaeologists unearth layers of Jerusalem’s history. These layers span from the First Temple period to the Abbasid period. That is more than ten different periods.
Since 2007, excavations at the Givati Parking Lot dig have been led by Doron Ben Ami and Yana Tchekhanovets. The Israel Antiquities Authority manages the dig. The City of David Foundation underwrites the project. But the project and site is managed by El’ad Association.
In the past, the Jerusalem Municipality seized land in Silwan. They created a parking lot for visitors. This area is now undergoing Judaization. The Wadi Hilwa Square was renamed the Givati Parking Lot.
Here at the Givati Parking Lot dig, discoveries have been remarkable. In 2008, a hoard of 264 gold coins were found. These coins dated back to the beginning of Byzantine Emperor Heraclius’s reign. That is between 610 and 613 CE.
Another significant find here at the Givati Parking Lot dig occurred in 2010. Archaeologists discovered a small Roman-era cameo of Cupid. It was made from onyx. This Cupid figure likely adorned a mourning piece.
In 2015, a tower and glacis were discovered. They are believed to be part of the Seleucid Acra fortress. These finds included fortification walls and arrowheads. They also found sling-stones stamped with a trident. This trident was characteristic of Antiochus IV Epiphanes.
In 2019, a seal was discovered. It bore the inscription “(belonging) to Nathan-Melech, Servant of the King.” Discoverers believe this seal refers to the official mentioned in 2 Kings 23:11.
Just recently in 2023, a series of channels dating to the 9th century BCE were unearthed. These channels offer new insights into ancient Jerusalem’s infrastructure.
A spacious Roman building was found. It dates to the third century CE. This mansion likely belonged to a wealthy individual. Fresco fragments suggest colorful wall paintings. A marble figurine of a boxer and a gold earring inlaid with precious stones were also found.
The Givati Parking Lot dig continues to reveal more about Jerusalem’s rich past. While controversies exist, the site offers a glimpse into the city’s historical tapestry. Each discovery adds another layer to our understanding.