Herodian Building Projects

In addition to restoring the Temple in Jerusalem, Herod embarked on a massive building campaign, erecting various temples in honor of his friends and Caesar. Herod’s construction projects also incorporated defensive measures that were aimed to build and reinforce Jerusalem’s protective walls, such as the fortresses in Cypros, Masada, Jericho, and Herodium. Of special mention is the Antonia fortress at the north end of the Temple, historically a location more vulnerable to enemy incursions. In addition, Herod financed numerous other public works outside Judaea, in cities throughout the region. One was the functioning harbor, named Caesarea, where he hosted the Olympic Games. Herod celebrated the completion of Caesarea with a festival and games to rival those of Rome and other great cities. He also built cities to honor his deceased father and brother. Images of many of Herod’s building projects can be found in Visual and Material Culture.