Download masada

-The location and geographical features of Masada
-An overview of Roman rule in Judaea and the organisation of a province
-The cause of conflict between Jews and Romans
-Who and what were the Sicarii (Jewish Rebels)?
-The occupation of Masada
-Josephus and his Jewish war
-The archaeological evidence on the site of Masada and the work of Yagael Yadin
-The military campaign (strategy and action) and the role of Flavius Silva (Roman commander)
-Evidence for the organisation of the Roman army and the archaeological evidence
Masada is geographically located in the Judean Valley close to the Dead sea, it is a
flat top rock that is of a rhombus like shape. The height of Masada is 50 metres above
sea level and its surroundings are mainly of gorges and rocky plains as it is situated in
a desert like valley. The position and way Masada is situated makes it ideal to build a
fortress upon and it was one of the main factors the Jews’ revolt against the Romans
lasted so long.
Josephus speaks of a “Snake Path” which was an access point in those times for
passer-by’s to enter as well as the “White Rock” and two other entrances north and
south of the plateau, this also assisted the Jews in their campaign of revolt against the
Romans. There were only a few defenders of Masada but because of the difficult
surroundings, it took a little ingenuity and three years of force to out muster the revolt
of the Jews.
In modern Israel today, Masada is a popular climb for tourists and is recognised as the
most visited and popular sites. Tourists can venture into Masada today via two entry
points, the “snake path” or from the opposite site via a roman ramp, which today also
has the new feature of a cable car for easier access.
Due to its distinct location and shape, King Herod the great used it as a fortress during
his reign and also as a refuge as he wasn’t so much a favourite amongst the Jewish
people as he was an ally of the Romans and enforced taxes amongst the people. Herod
added many luxuries and protection methods if there was to ever be a revolt against
him.
Not until 66 AD was Masada captured by the Jews in the Jewish revolt against the
Romans. It was controlled by a minute group of Jews and them and many others Jews
occupied the area. Romans tried to capture Masada in a siege but it wasn’t till they
employed an army of what was known as 15,000 to siege Masada. It took them three
years as they conditions were extremely difficult as means of transport of food and
water was very difficult. A wall was created to prevent escape, but at last the Roman
army succeeded but to the disappointment of the Romans the Jews had all committed
suicide instead of turning themselves over to become slaves.