Tower of David, Old Wall, and Olive Trees—Jerusalem

‎In Bible times, the towers formed part of the defenses of fortified cities (Neh. 3:1). They were erected beside the city gates—the one in our picture is at the Jaffa Gate—at the corners of the walls, and at intervals in the intervening space (2 Chronicles 26:9). Watchmen were stationed on them, military engines for shooting arrows and stones were mounted on them, and the citizens found refuge in them when much pressed by the enemy (Judges 9:51–52).

‎Within their massive walls, the inmates were secure; their height allowed openings for light and air, out of reach of the adversary; and from their top, missiles could be advantageously discharged at the foe.