# Hasmonean-era aqueduct discovery near Jerusalem

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hasmonean-era-aqueduct-discovery-near-jerusalem
> Updated: 2026-10-19T14:49:39.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

Archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority have uncovered a 300-meter section of the ancient Lower Aqueduct near Jerusalem, specifically south of Kibbutz Ramat Rachel. The discovery occurred during excavations ahead of planned residential development.

The water system, likely constructed during the Hasmonean period over 2,000 years ago, was part of a 21-kilometer gravity-fed network designed to transport spring water from the Gush Etzion region to the Temple Mount. The engineering utilized a precise slope of approximately one meter per kilometer to facilitate water flow without mechanical pumps.

Excavations revealed that the structure underwent multiple historical modifications. While the original channel was plastered, ceramic pipes and decorative stone-embedded plaster were added during the Ottoman period approximately 500 years ago. The system remained in intermittent use until roughly 100 years ago. Plans indicate the site will be preserved and integrated into the new residential neighborhood for public viewing.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: Jerusalem archaeologists uncover 2,000-year-old aqueduct section

Archaeologists have uncovered a 300-meter section of Jerusalem's 2,000-year-old Lower Aqueduct, a sophisticated gravity-fed water system dating back to the Hasmonean period.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jerusalem-archaeologists-uncover-2000-year-old-aqueduct-section

### 2026-10-11: Hasmonean-era aqueduct section uncovered near Jerusalem

Archaeologists have uncovered a 300-meter section of a 2,000-year-old Hasmonean-era aqueduct near Jerusalem, part of an ancient gravity-fed water system.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hasmonean-era-aqueduct-section-uncovered-near-jerusalem

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Cite as: Hasmonean-era aqueduct discovery near Jerusalem. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hasmonean-era-aqueduct-discovery-near-jerusalem
