PERSIAN PERIOD FINDS FROM JERUSALEM: FACTS AND INTERPRETATIONS.

The article analyzes archaeological finds from the Persian and Early Hellenistic periods in Jerusalem, and examine the scope of the built-up area of the city to provide an estimate of the city's population during the two periods. It is reported that, political independence marked the history of Jerusalem during the periods, and the built-up area of the city expanded to the Western Hill of Jerusalem and was enclosed by strong fortifications. It is reported that, occupation levels of the Persian and early Hellenistic periods were severely damaged by intensive building activities conducted in the late Hellenistic period, and during the future periods.