Hezekiah's Broad Wall
City:
Jerusalem
State, Province, Region, or District:
Jerusalem District
Country:
Israel
Overview
Nestled in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem is Hezekiah’s Broad Wall, a remarkable archaeological discovery in Jerusalem. Unearthed in the 1970s by Israeli archaeologist Nahman Avigad, it demonstrated the urgency with which Jerusalem expanded its walls to protect its increasing population.
Constructed around 710 BC by King Hezekiah, this formidable fortification was built to shield Jerusalem from the Assyrian forces. It aligns with the descriptions in Isaiah and 2 Chronicles regarding Hezekiah's preparations for the Assyrian siege. Due to the hurried nature of its construction, builders did not clear paths adequately; instead, they demolished nearby residential homes and integrated the debris directly into the wall's foundation (Isaiah 22:10). The structure primarily consists of large, roughly hewn limestone blocks placed directly on the solid bedrock.
Hezekiah’s Broad Wall was initially around 23 feet (7 meters) wide, 25 feet (8 meters) high, and extended roughly 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) in length. The unbroken section of the wall revealed by Avigad's excavation is about 213 feet (65 meters) long and is preserved in some areas up to a height of nearly 11 feet (3.3 meters).
Today, visitors can stand beside its remains and imagine the tense days when Jerusalem prepared for war and survival.
Alternate Names
Hezekiah's Broad Wall; Broad Wall
Geography & Location
Hezekiah’s Broad Wall connected the lower part of the City of David with the west side of the Temple Mount.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
After the division of the nation of Israel into two kingdoms (Israel and Judah), God sent prophet after prophet to warn them to turn from their sinful ways and follow Him. However, all these warnings fell on deaf ears.
Architecture
The wall boasts an immense width of 23 feet (7 meters). Archaeologists estimate that in its original state, it may have stood as tall as 25+ feet (8 meters) to serve as a formidable barrier against siege engines and battering rams.
Biblical & Historical References
Direct and Indirect References to the Broad Wall
Spiritual Lessons and Application
Even though Hezekiah had a wicked father, he chose to serve the Lord.
Etymology
Hezekiah’s "Broad Wall”: Hezekiah’s "Broad Wall” was called such by archaeologists because of its width.
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
Hezekiah’s Broad Wall
Virtual Visit
The exposed base of the wall is located between the Jewish Quarter houses.