The Pool of Siloam has since 2004 been one of the most thrilling discoveries in the history of Biblical archeology. The spot where Jesus healed the blind man has continued to attract millions of visitors as a place that can be genuinely identified as somewhere Jesus actually was and performed a miracle.
Located just southeast of the Old City, this pool was used by those entering Jerusalem for ritual cleansing before then taking the Pilgrim’s road, built by the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate, up to the Southern Steps into the Temple. Jesus would have taken this path often as he entered Jerusalem for different festivals and observances.
Discovered to be about 225 feet wide with steps going down into the pool on three sides, the discovery of the pool in 2004 was heralded as one of the greater finds in Israel since the Dead Sea Scrolls. Since then, there was an area for visitors on the steps to visit, but little more has occurred in the area. That is about to change.
It has recently been announced that there will finally be a very extensive and full excavation of the area. This is beyond exciting. Not only will they finally be able to see the entire scope of the pool, which is thought to be about an acre, but every bucket of dirt that comes out may end up exposing unknown archeological treasures.
So will this mean that the Pool of Siloam will be closed for visitors during the excavation? No! You will still be able to visit the steps, and you will be able to watch the excavation as it takes place. Who knows, maybe you will be there when the shouts of excitement let out at a historical discovery!
Are you ready to plan your trip to Israel?
