Antonia Fortress

Antonia Fortress was a fortified military installation in ancient Jerusalem, constructed in the late first century BCE and associated with Herodian building programmes. It stood at the northwest corner of the Temple precinct and functioned as a barracks and strongpoint overlooking the Temple complex.

The fortress is notable in historical sources for its role as a Roman military position in Jerusalem and for its proximity to major religious spaces in the city. It is also referenced in accounts of events from the late Second Temple period.

Built under the auspices of Herodian-era authorities, the fortress was used by successive Roman garrisons during the first century CE and was a focal point during the tensions and clashes that culminated in the Roman siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE. The structure was largely destroyed in the course of that campaign.

The site sits within the Old City of Jerusalem, immediately adjacent to the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif area; the nearest modern reference points are the Western Wall plaza and other central Old City landmarks.

• Adjacent to Temple Mount: Sits adjacent to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem's Old City and is commonly identified with the site that overlooked the Second Temple precincts in antiquity.