New research in Jerusalem: Archaeologists have reconstructed the ancient landscape around the Church of the Holy Sepulchertranslated

A team of archaeologists coordinated by the Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, has reconstructed the ancient landscape around the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem.

The current place of worship is built over part of an ancient quarry on Gareb Hill. After the stone mining ceased, some areas were developed for agriculture and others were used for burials.

The research followed the evolution of the area over several historical periods. The results contribute to understanding the configuration of the place before the construction of the Christian place of worship in the 4th century.

Traces have been identified that indicate the existence of plots delimited by low walls, where soil was brought for cultivation. Analyzes revealed remains of figs, grapes and grain, as well as indications of vines and olive trees.

According to the team of archaeologists from Sapienza University, the project represents "the first archaeobotanical investigation carried out in Jerusalem covering such a broad chronological sequence, from the middle Iron Age to the modern era".

Graves in the area of the former quarry Research has also highlighted…