Rock-cut Pool near the Gihon Spring
Context
Kathleen Kenyon was a prominent British archaeologist who led excavations at the City of David site from 1961 to 1967 under the Jordanian Department of Antiquities, uncovering ancient structures including those from the Iron Age. She is considered one of the most influential archaeologists of the 20th century, having published her findings on the site's early settlement layers.
What Was Found
The rock-cut pool is an ancient feature from the Iron Age II period located near the Gihon Spring in the City of David. It forms part of the water systems and defensive networks around the spring, as revealed through archaeological excavations. The pool's ancient origins have been confirmed by recent digs, highlighting its role in historical water management.
Why This Matters
The rock-cut pool demonstrates ancient engineering for water systems and defense in the City of David.
Acceptance Assessment
Widely Accepted
What Scholars Debate
Scholars debate the exact dating of structures like the Siloam Tunnel, with some evidence suggesting an origin in the late 9th or early 8th century BCE, while others link it to biblical events such as Hezekiah's preparations for an Assyrian siege; additionally, the reliability of biblical narratives for the site's history is subject to ongoing discussion among researchers.