September
19
/ 2013
Archaeologists excavating at Jerusalem’s Mount Zion have uncovered the remains of a 2,000-year-old ruined mansion near the Second Temple erected by Herod. The discovery sheds light on the wealthy class of Jerusalem during Jesus’ day with some suggesting that it could have been home to one of Jesus’ enemies. The mansion would have belonged to wealthy owners, signified by its size and features such as intricate carvings, a luxurious oven and a bathtub, and is similar to others found in King Herod's palace and a priest's residence. It is thought that the home belonged to a member of the Sadducees class, a group of Jews that were active in Judea during the Second Temple period who were typically wealthy, powerful
