Mysterious ancient hand print discovered in Jerusalem - in pictures

  • The Israel Antiquities Authority discovered a hand imprint carved into a deep 1,000-year-old rock-hewn moat, next to the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. Photos: EPA
    The Israel Antiquities Authority discovered a hand imprint carved into a deep 1,000-year-old rock-hewn moat, next to the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. Photos: EPA
  • Excavation director Zubair Adawi said that the uncovered moat is right underneath the street and surrounds the entire Old City
    Excavation director Zubair Adawi said that the uncovered moat is right underneath the street and surrounds the entire Old City
  • 'People are not aware that this busy street is built directly over a huge moat, an enormous rock-hewn channel, at least 10 metres wide and between 2-7 metres deep', Mr Adawi said
    'People are not aware that this busy street is built directly over a huge moat, an enormous rock-hewn channel, at least 10 metres wide and between 2-7 metres deep', Mr Adawi said
  • 'The moat dates back about 1,000 years to the 10th century or earlier. It prevented the enemy besieging Jerusalem from approaching the walls and breaking into the city'.
    'The moat dates back about 1,000 years to the 10th century or earlier. It prevented the enemy besieging Jerusalem from approaching the walls and breaking into the city'.
  • 'Moats, usually filled with water, are well-known from fortifications and castles in Europe. But, here the moat was dry, its width and depth presenting an obstacle slowing down the attacking army' said Mr Adawi
    'Moats, usually filled with water, are well-known from fortifications and castles in Europe. But, here the moat was dry, its width and depth presenting an obstacle slowing down the attacking army' said Mr Adawi