Herodium

Herodium, also known as Jabal al-Fureidis in Arabic, is an ancient hilltop fortress and palace complex located in the West Bank, about 12 kilometers southeast of Jerusalem. It was built by Herod the Great, the Roman-appointed king of Judea, between 23 and 20 BCE. The site is named after him and served as a royal winter palace, a fortified administrative center, and a final resting place.

Herodium is a striking architectural achievement, characterized by its conical shape and impressive fortifications. Herod commissioned the construction of a magnificent palace on the summit, featuring lavish living quarters, bathhouses, courtyards, and a hippodrome. The lower parts of the mound were also developed with additional structures and reservoirs. The complex was designed for both defense and luxury, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Archaeological excavations at Herodium have revealed significant findings that shed light on Herod's reign and the history of the region. Most notably, the tomb of Herod the Great was discovered within the fortress in 2007, confirming its role as his burial site. The site also holds historical importance as a location where Jewish rebels fortified themselves during the First Jewish-Roman War and later during the Bar Kokhba revolt. Herodium is a protected archaeological site and a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the Herodian period.