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Temple Built by Herod the Great
Herod’s Temple was the largest religious complex in the ancient world. Building began in 20-19 BC. The main work was completed over a period of ten years, the decoration continued until 64 AD.
A place of pilgrimage, it was the seat of the Divine Presence in Israel. An immense area, the Temple court was three hundred yards wide by five hundred yards long.
At the great feasts the population of the city trebled, the Temple courts were thronged with people. This was the
Temple known to Jesus. He taught there, and in winter walked in the Portico of Solomon.
Besides its religious function it was a civic centre. Money changers traded in the civic area. Animals were sold for
sacrifice, probably in the court inside the northern entrance through which animals entered.
The Resouce Centre Maps