Archaeologists carrying out routine excavations ahead of a housing development in Jerusalem have been left stunned after uncovering a mysterious underground tunnel.
The extraordinary subterranean passage near Kibbutz Ramat Rachel is believed to stretch around 164-foot long.
It was discovered unexpectedly after researchers encountered what first appeared to be a natural karstic cavity.
"We were excavating in relatively rocky and exposed terrain when suddenly we discovered a natural karstic cavity," said Dr Sivan Mizrahi and Zinovi Matskevich, who are leading the dig on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority.
"To our amazement, as the excavation progressed, this cavity developed into a long tunnel.
"Parts of it are still collapsed, so the tunnel has not yet revealed all of its secrets."
The tunnel’s origins remain a complete mystery, with experts currently unable to determine when it was built.
At its largest points, the structure stands around 16 feet high and nearly 10 feet wide, suggesting a major engineering effort requiring advanced planning, technical skill and significant manpower.
The extraordinary subterranean passage is believed to stretch around 164-foot long
|ISRAEL ANTIQUITIES AUTHORITY
Investigations at several points inside the passage indicate the excavation was carried out with remarkable precision.
"The date of the tunnel is also a mystery to us," Dr Mizrahi and Matskevich said.
Researchers initially explored whether the structure may have served as an ancient water channel or connected to a spring.
However, the absence of water erosion on the walls - combined with no nearby water source - has largely ruled out that possibility.
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The mysterious tunnel was discovered near Kibbutz Ramat Rachel
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Experts also considered whether the tunnel could have been used for agriculture or industrial purposes, but its unusual scale and unique nature have made those theories less convincing.
The leading explanation currently points to stone quarrying or lime production.
A ventilation shaft carved into the ceiling, along with quarrying debris found inside, has strengthened that theory.
Nearby Iron Age archaeological remains have also raised speculation the tunnel could be far older than its surprisingly refined construction first suggests.
The revelation - made around Jerusalem Day celebrations - has added further intrigue to the find
|GETTY
The revelation - made around Jerusalem Day celebrations - has added further intrigue to the find.
"This discovery joins many others being uncovered every day, hour by hour, throughout the city," the Israel Antiquities Authority said.
"Usually, we have explanations for the discoveries we uncover, but sometimes, as in this case, we stand astonished and amazed."
The Israel Lands Authority said the site highlights the rare intersection between modern development and the preservation of ancient history.
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