Cistern Entrance 1

View of the entrance into the huge water cistern at Beth Shemesh.  A built staircase, on the left side of the image, descends 7 steps and then turns right as it continues into the cistern.

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This cistern is cruciform in shape.  According to the excavator, this cistern was constructed during the days of the United Monarchy (David and/or Solomon; 1010-930 BC) and went out of use in the early seventh century BC.  The excavator estimates that it could hold 57,600 gal. (218,000 l.) of water.

For a brief description of Beth Shemesh and its biblical significance and a map Click Here.