(Part of the ancient Cardo has been converted to an underground mall)
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Cardo
Maximus, or simply the Cardo, was the main North-South "Boulevard" in
all Roman cities and military camps. It would typically run through the entire
city and serve as the center for the local economy. Another East-West road,
called the Decumanus Maximus, intersected the Cardo Maximus.
After
the Bar Kochba Revolt (2nd Jewish Revolt) was quelled by Hadrian, he decimated
Jerusalem, then rebuilt it as Aelia Capitolina. At that time, a Cardo Maximus
was added.
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Beginning
in 1967, portions of the Cardo Maximus have been excavated in the Jewish
Quarter of Jerusalem. The modern street level is nearly 20 feet above the Cardo
level. From side to side, the Cardo is approximately 75 feet wide. The street
itself is about 40 feet wide.
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Pillars
supported covered sidewalks, which served two purposes; to protect pedestrians
from traffic and also the sun. Vendors could set up shop on both sides of the
Cardo.
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