Archaeologists warn Western Wall project threatens history
The Times of Israel reported that archaeologists expressed deep concern over construction and renovation works at the Western Wall enclosure in Jerusalem’s Old City, Maariv reported Tuesday. The work, they said, would greatly damage artifacts under the plaza floor, which would be lost forever.
The Israel Antiquities Authority said in response that extensive preservation work was being conducted at the site. The ongoing project, which was given the green light in 2009, looks to build a new visitors’ center, expand the public restrooms and add an additional floor to the existing plaza.
According to Maariv, there was no proper examination of the site for possible archaeological finds prior to the excavation work, as is mandatory in digs throughout Jerusalem.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you. Psalm 122:6 (NKJV)
Read The Times of Israel article, May 28, 2013.
(photo credit: Sliman Khader/Flash90)