Ancient underground quarry, Jordan Valley, Archaeological site in Jordan Valley, Palestine
The underground quarry in Jericho spans across a large excavated space supported by substantial stone pillars that form the main hall. The layout reveals how workers systematically extracted stone in layers and removed blocks from the ground beneath their feet.
The quarry began operating during the early Roman period about 2000 years ago and served as a major source of building stone for centuries. Its extended use demonstrates the importance of this site for regional construction projects over a long span of time.
The pillars display engravings and symbols from different periods, including Byzantine crosses and zodiac signs that visitors can observe today. These marks show how people used and marked the space across centuries.
Access involves descending into a stable underground space where temperatures stay constant year-round, providing relief from the surrounding heat. Visitors should expect uneven stone floors and limited natural light, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
The quarry sits far below sea level and ranks among the lowest elevation archaeological sites in the Mediterranean region. This extreme location at one of the world's lowest points makes the site geographically remarkable.
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