Archaeologists have uncovered a vast ancient structure in one of the oldest urban centers on Earth. In Jerusalem’s City of David, researchers revealed the remains of a massive moat—first mentioned over 3,000 years ago in biblical texts. This striking find offers fresh insight into the city’s early layout and defensive design.

For 150 years, scholars have searched for proof that the city had once been split into two zones. The newly exposed moat provides that long-sought evidence. It clearly separates the southern residential quarter from the elevated northern district, matching accounts found in the Bible.

The moat itself was no small barrier. It plunged nearly 30 feet deep and stretched close to 100 feet across. With sheer cliffs lining both sides, it would have been almost impossible to cross. Researchers believe the structure dates to the Iron Age—the same era as the books of Kings and Samuel, which reference this very division.