The Story of Masada

During the first Jewish revolt against Rome from 66-70 AD, Jerusalem was seized by the Romans and the second temple destroyed. Jewish Zealots, including women and children, fled and took refuge at Masada. It was the last Jewish stronghold during the war. A legion of 8,000 Roman soldiers built camps surrounding the base of Masada and a siege ramp against the western face of the plateau. Using a massive battering ram the soldiers finally breached the wall of the fortress. What they found was all but five of the 960 inhabitants had taken their own lives rather than surrender to the Romans.Read more