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Huge Kingdom of Judah Complex Found near U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem
(Times of Israel) Amanda Borschel-Dan - One of the largest collections of royal Kingdom of Judah seal impressions has been uncovered at a massive First Temple-period public tax collection and storage complex being excavated near the new U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. Uncovered 3 km. (1.8 mile) outside the Old City, the compound is believed by Israel Antiquities Authority archaeologists to have served as an administrative center during the reigns of Judean kings Hezekiah and Menashe (8th century to the middle of the 7th century BCE). Over 120 jar handles stamped 2,700 years ago with ancient Hebrew script seal impressions were discovered at the site. Many were stamped "LMLK," "LaMeLeKh," or "Belonging to the King." The ongoing salvage excavations in Jerusalem's Arnona neighborhood are being conducted ahead of the construction of a new building project. Jerusalem District Archaeologist Dr. Yuval Baruch said government agencies are working together to preserve the site within the plan of the new project.