Rome destroyed the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This catastrophic event took place in 70 CE during the First Roman-Jewish War.
The destruction of the Second Temple was a pivotal moment in both Roman and Jewish history. After months of intense fighting and a brutal siege led by the future Emperor Titus, Roman legions finally breached Jerusalem's defenses. The city, and particularly its most sacred structure, the Second Temple, suffered immense devastation.
The Siege and Destruction of the Second Temple
The Roman campaign against Judea began in 66 CE following widespread Jewish rebellion against Roman rule. By 70 CE, the conflict had escalated, culminating in the siege of Jerusalem. Roman forces systematically overwhelmed the city's fortifications. Although accounts vary, the Temple was ultimately set ablaze and **destroyed**, an act that signified the complete Roman victory and the end of the Jewish state for nearly two millennia.The destruction was not merely an act of war; it profoundly altered Jewish religious practice, shifting the focus from temple-based rituals to synagogue worship and study.
The Enduring Legacy: The Western Wall
Following the widespread devastation, only a portion of the Temple Mount's outer retaining wall remained standing. This ancient structure is known today as the **Western Wall**, or *Kotel*, and has become one profoundly sacred site for Jews worldwide. It serves as a place of prayer, pilgrimage, and remembrance of the destroyed Temple. While modern archaeological discoveries suggest that some parts of the wall's current structure may date to later periods, its significance as a remnant of the Second Temple complex remains paramount.The destruction of the Second Temple is annually commemorated by Jews through the fast day of Tisha B'Av, a day of mourning for several historical calamities.
Key Events in the Temple's Fate
The timeline below highlights the critical events surrounding the destruction of the Second Temple by Roman forces:| Event | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| First Roman-Jewish War Begins | 66 CE | Major revolt sparked by religious and political tensions between Jews and the Roman Empire. |
| Vespasian's Campaign in Judea | 67–69 CE | Roman general (later emperor) Vespasian systematically reconquers Judea, isolating Jerusalem. |
| Siege of Jerusalem Commences | 70 CE | Roman forces, led by Titus, besiege the city, leading to widespread famine and suffering within its walls. |
| Destruction of the Second Temple | 70 CE | Roman legions conquer Jerusalem and destroy the sacred Jewish Temple. |
| Western Wall Remains | Post-70 CE | A portion of the Temple's retaining wall survives, becoming a vital holy site for Judaism. |
