Again: brutal destruction of David's Tomb area

Vandalism in the compound of the tomb of King David on Mount Zion in Jerusalem: The Israel Antiquities Authority filed a complaint with Jerusalem police today, due to the damage done last night at David's Tomb compound. This is an unusual case in its severity and irreversible destruction of the remains of the compound.

Most of the ceramic tiles, covering the core structure of the tomb and which were one of the symbols of the place, were smashed at the grave site. This is the second incident of vandalism in the place during the last two weeks.

The wall cladding with tiles at the compound was probably done in the 17th century, as part of the prevailing fashion in Jerusalem of the Ottoman period of colored tile cladding for structures, such as the Dome of the Rock and the Dome of the Chain on Temple Mount.

The David's Tomb compound has an exceptional value from an archaeological, cultural perspective, and the fact that the place is lively with prayer and study of worshipers.

About 5 years ago, after years in which the site was neglected, the Israel Antiquities Authority, together with the Jerusalem Development Authority, started a project of preservation and maintenance of David's Tomb complex. So far, millions of shekels have been invested there, to make it one of the most important focal areas in the old city - as befits its importance.

It is not yet clear who had an interest to destroy the place and who is involved.

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!