Roman thermal baths discovered under modern mikveh

The Old City of Jerusalem will soon have a new mikveh, with a de facto two-thousand-year history behind it.

After ten years of construction, the inhabitants of Jerusalem will finally be able to enjoy the new mikveh – a reservoir with running water. Interestingly, before the start of construction, in the designated site for construction works, the remains of a Roman bath belonging to the 10th Roman legion were found. Clay pipes, mosaics and ceramics bearing the symbols and emblems of the aforementioned legion were brought to light. It is worth adding that this legion was responsible for the destruction of the Second Temple and the overthrow of the Jewish uprising.

The mikveh is said to be a symbol of revenge that will wash away the blood of murdered Jews from two thousand years ago.