By continuing to browser our site and use the services you agree to our use of cookies, Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.
Photo shows the 2,700-year-old private toilet cubicle discovered in an ancient royal mansion in southeastern Jerusalem. [Photo/Israel Antiquities Authority]
JERUSALEM — Israeli archaeologists have found a rare ancient toilet in Jerusalem dating back more than 2,700 years, when private bathrooms were a luxury in the holy city, authorities said Tuesday.
The Israeli Antiquities Authority said the smooth, carved limestone toilet was found in a rectangular cabin that was part of a sprawling mansion overlooking what is now the Old City. It was designed for comfortable sitting, with a deep septic tank dug underneath.
"A private toilet cubicle was very rare in antiquity, and only a few were found to date," said Yaakov Billig, the director of the excavation.
Photo shows the 2,700-year-old private toilet cubicle discovered in an ancient royal mansion in southeastern Jerusalem. [Photo/Israel Antiquities Authority]
"Only the rich could afford toilets," he said, adding that a famed rabbi once suggested that to be wealthy is "to have a toilet next to his table."
Animal bones and pottery found in the septic tank could shed light on the lifestyle and diet of people living at that time, as well as ancient diseases, the antiquities authority said.
The archaeologists found stone capitals and columns from the era, and said there was evidence of a nearby garden with orchards and aquatic plants — more evidence that those living there were quite wealthy.
16 New Measures Set to Make Life in Hainan for Foreigners Easier
08:10, 18-April-20244th CICPE Helps Hainan’s Yacht Industry Development
03:37, 18-April-2024New friends, new opportunities at the Hainan Expo
03:37, 18-April-2024Fáilte go Hainan! FTP Becomes Top Destination for Irish Firms
03:37, 18-April-2024Michael's EV Journey in Haikou
03:37, 18-April-2024OCOs on Expo: Inira’s magical Hainan Expo journey
06:01, 17-April-2024By continuing to browser our site and use the services you agree to our use of cookies, Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.