Jerusalem and the Temple Are Destroyed by Titus

After subduing the rebellion in most of the country, the Romans took aim at Jerusalem. Destroying Jerusalem, the center of Israel's spiritual life and the heart of the rebellion would completely quash the revolt.

 Filled to the brim with refugees, Jerusalem held more than double its normal populace. Even so, Jerusalem had ample provision in its massive storehouses and a secure water supply to sustain its inhabitants for a long time. But a civil war raged inside the walls, and in an attempt to force everyone to take up arms, the Zealots and the Sicarii burned down the storehouses. Famine broke out, weakening the Jewish forces.

 Titus began his attack on the eve of Passover 70 CE. The Jews heavily resisted, and it took Titus two months to finally breach the walls. Jerusalem turned into a blood bath with Roman soldiers slaughtering Jews in their houses and on the streets.

 The Burnt House, located in Old City's Jewish Quarter, was the residence of the priestly Kathros family. Excavated by Prof Nachman Avigad, the house gives testimony to the destruction, with a Roman spearhead and a severed arm bone belonging to a young woman amongst the charred ruins.