A New Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem? The Construction of the Nea Church (531–543) by Emperor Justinian

Emperor Justinian's construction of the Nea Church (531–543) in Jerusalem, as described by Procopius and Cyril of Scythopolis, may have symbolically positioned it as a typological successor to the Jewish Temple. Archaeological evidence from excavations led by Nahman Avigad supports this theory, suggesting Justinian intended the Nea not only as a new Church of Mary but also as a reimagining of Solomon's Temple. This study compares contemporary literary sources with archaeological findings to explore Justinian's theological and symbolic intentions, contributing to the understanding of his building activities in the Holy Land.

Trampedach, K. (2022). A New Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem? The Construction of the Nea Church (531–543) by Emperor Justinian. City of Caesar, City of God, 161–182. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110718447-007