We started early with a walk to the Western Wall plaza. We then commenced a guided tour of the Western Wall tunnels, which is a series of archeological sites spanning the entire length of the Temple Mount. This fascinating walk along the ancient foundations took us on the ancient paths of 2000 years ago, until recently buried below rubble and layers of centuries. This included city infrastructure such as - huge water cisterns and aqueducts!
Remarkably, this tunnel tour brought us back to our home - Ecce Homo.
From Mid morning we then travelled to the ancient City of David (outside the present city walls) which is one of the first civilized areas of ancient Jerusalem. Although no direct proof, many artifacts found here point to this being the palace of King David. The highlight of the day was a walk through the Hezekiah tunnels (700 BC) which was an 500m tunnel in darkness still with running water through it. This tunnel through the mountain was a diversionary tactic by the ancient Israelites to protect their vital water supply from invading armies.
We then ascended up 'Steep street' and an ancient Roman sewer (sanitation!)
After this the Tassie pilgrims went on to Mt Zion to visit Schindler's tomb, which was locked - so we'll try again another day. We also visited the Church of St Peter in Gallicantu. This is the site of Caiaphas' house, thus Peter's denial of Christ when the cock crew. The caves in the crypt are where Christ spent the night in the dungeon before being taken to Pilate the next morning.
After dinner we toured the lithostrothas of Ecce Homo (meaning "Behold the Man"), where we are staying. This recently discovered area is a 1st century street complete with Roman carvings in the road where they played games - whilst being bored. It forms part of the original Via Dolorosa near the Antonia fortress.
In all a huge day with weary feet!
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