Remaking the City: Archaeological Projects of Political Import in Jerusalem's Old City and in the Village of Silwan

Archaeological excavations in Jerusalem's Old City and the village of Silwan serve as powerful tools for political narrative shaping, directly influencing land control and historical interpretation. These projects, such as the Givati Parking Lot site planned to become the 'Kedem Center,' aim to connect key Israeli heritage sites like the 'City of David' archaeological park and the Western Wall plaza through underground tunnels. This approach alters the landscape and perception of the area, often sidelining the present-day Palestinian Muslim reality in favor of a narrative rooted in ancient periods significant to Israeli identity. Recent excavations have exposed ancient underground complexes, offering visitors an imagined historical experience that reinforces specific political and cultural claims.

Veeder, A., & Mizrachi, Y. (2014). Remaking the City: Archaeological Projects of Political Import in Jerusalem’s Old City and in the Village of Silwan. Approaching Religion, 4(2), 141–147. https://doi.org/10.30664/ar.67557