Burnt House

Old Jerusalem Burnt House

Burnt House refers to an archaeological site located in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. The site is a remnant of a house that was destroyed during the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE. The house is believed to have belonged to a wealthy family, possibly the Katros family, who were priests in the Second Temple.

Discovery and Excavation

The Burnt House was discovered in 1970 during excavations led by Nahman Avigad. The excavations were part of a larger project to uncover the ancient remains of Jerusalem following the Six-Day War. The house was found beneath layers of debris and ash, indicating it had been destroyed by fire.

Historical Context

The destruction of the Burnt House is linked to the Great Jewish Revolt against the Roman Empire, which culminated in the destruction of the Second Temple and much of Jerusalem. The house provides a snapshot of life in Jerusalem during the late Second Temple period.

Structure and Artifacts

The Burnt House is a typical example of a wealthy Jerusalemite home from the Second Temple period. It includes several rooms, a courtyard, and a mikveh (ritual bath). Among the artifacts found were stone vessels, pottery, and coins. One of the most significant finds was a weight inscribed with the name "Bar Kathros," suggesting the house may have belonged to the priestly Kathros family.

Significance

The Burnt House offers valuable insights into the daily life, culture, and tragic end of the Jewish inhabitants of Jerusalem during the Roman siege. It is an important site for understanding the history of Jerusalem and the impact of the Roman conquest.

Current Status

Today, the Burnt House is a museum open to the public. It features a multimedia presentation that recreates the events leading up to the house's destruction, providing visitors with a vivid historical experience.

See Also

• Second Temple
• Great Jewish Revolt
• Old City of Jerusalem
• Jewish Quarter (Jerusalem)
• Nahman Avigad