Overview
- The Israel Antiquities Authority and the Western Wall Heritage Foundation announced the discovery on Monday from ongoing excavations under the plaza, with detailed study still pending.
- The rock-hewn, plastered installation measures about 3.05 meters by 1.35 meters and 1.85 meters deep, with four steps descending on its southern side.
- Stratigraphy shows the mikveh was sealed beneath the Roman-era destruction layer dated to around 70 C.E., with ash and collapsed debris inside.
- Recovered finds include stone vessels associated with ritual purity practices, along with pottery, glass fragments, and several coins.
- The bath lies near the Great Bridge and Robinson’s Arch, and researchers say it likely served residents and pilgrims, though its water-supply channel has not yet been identified.