Herod's Temple

Herod's Temple was an expansive structure in Jerusalem with high limestone walls surrounding multiple courtyards designed for ceremonies and prayer. The layout included distinct areas for different visitor groups, from the outer court to the innermost sacred rooms.

The structure was built around 20 BCE under Herod the Great as a major renovation of the earlier Second Temple. Roman forces destroyed it in 70 CE during a rebellion against occupation.

The temple served as the spiritual center where people gathered for major festivals and where access rules defined who could enter different areas. These restrictions shaped daily religious practice and showed the order of the community's relationship with the sacred.

The outer area was open to all, while inner courtyards had restrictions. Visitors should know that remains are found beneath modern Jerusalem and can be explored through archaeological sites and museums in the city.

Builders used massive limestone blocks weighing up to 40 tons, fitted so precisely without mortar that they remained stable for centuries. This building technique was remarkable for its time and shows the skill of ancient craftspeople.