The ancient limestone toilet used by the elite of Jerusalem 2,700 years back shows that parasites were a problem in this wealthy family.
Tel Aviv University scientists discovered that intestinal worm eggs from sediments found beneath the stone toilet were preserved by researchers. They survived in cesspit conditions.
Toxic parasites called intestinal worms cause nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and itching. They can be contracted by people who have poor hygiene.
The limestone commode is carved in its center.
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The ancient limestone toilet used by the elite of Jerusalem 2,700 years back shows that parasites were a problem in this wealthy family.
In October, the Israeli Antiquities Authority discovered the toilet in the remains of an old Jerusalem mansion.
The Laboratory of Archaeobotany and Ancient Environments at Tel Aviv University was directed by Dr Dafna Longgut. She then conducted research to find out if any of their owners had left behind information that could be used as a source of further details about the owner and their life.
Langgut took sediment samples under the stone toilet where the cesspit was. In her laboratory she chemically extracted parasite eggs and examined them with a light microscope to identify them.
Langgut said in a statement that “the findings of this research are among the most recent observed in Israel to-date.”
Tel Aviv University scientists discovered that intestinal worm eggs found in sediments from beneath the stone toilet were sufficient to sustain the conditions at the cesspit.
In October, the Israeli Antiquities Authority discovered the toilet in the remains of an old mansion at Jerusalem’s Armon Hanatziv Promenade.
“These eggs are strong and can withstand the extreme conditions of the cesspit for almost 2,700 years.
“Some of them can be especially harmful for children.
Here are some suggestions from her about how ancient humans contracted parasites.
This could be due to contamination of food or water.
Another possibility is that the family ate improperly cooked pork or beef on a regular basis.
The original toilet was located in an outside private bathroom, much like the outhouse structure. The garden was adjacent to the mansion and offered a stunning view of both the City of David (the Temple Mount) and its surrounding area.
The first discovery of the toilet involved archaeologists finding animal bones and pottery in its septic tank.
Eli Eskosido was the Director of Israel Antiquities Authority. In a statement, he said: “It’s fascinating to see that something so obvious today, like toilets, was considered a luxury item in the reign of the Kings of Judah.” Jerusalem never ceases to amaze.’
In an exterior bathroom similar to an outhouse, the toilet used to be located.
The magnificent Garden adjacent to the Mansion offered a stunning view of both the City of David (the Temple Mount) and its surrounding gardens. Langgut discovered the cesspit there, as well as the remaining fruit and ornamental tree trees.