2,700-Year-Old Toilet Found in Jerusalem Was a Rare Luxury

2,700-Year-Old Toilet Found in Jerusalem Was a Rare Luxury
A rare ancient toilet is seen in Jerusalem, Israel, dating back more than 2,700 years. Yoli Schwartz/Israel Antiquities Authority via AP
The Associated Press
Updated:

JERUSALEM—Israeli archaeologists have found a rare ancient toilet in Jerusalem dating back more than 2,700 years, when private bathrooms were a luxury in the holy city, authorities said Tuesday.

The Israeli Antiquities Authority said the smooth, carved limestone toilet was found in a rectangular cabin that was part of a sprawling mansion overlooking what is now the Old City. It was designed for comfortable sitting, with a deep septic tank dug underneath.