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The Fortress Antonia
The Fortress Antonia was named by Herod the Great in honor of his patron,
Marc Antony. It served as the base of Roman authority in Jerusalem. It
was strategically located on a raised rock-foundation at a high point
north of the Temple. From this location, all of Jerusalem could be\ controlled.
A stairway led down from the Fortress Antonia into the northwest courtyard
of the Temple complex. Josephus states that there were elaborate buildings
within the Fortress.
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The Pool of Israel
The Pool of Israel was located just east of the Fortress Antonia and north
of the Temple complex. All sheep to be sacrificed were washed in this
pool. After the sheep were washed they would be led into the Temple for
sacrifice.
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