Retrace your steps to exit the upper terrace of the Northern Palace, and head for the steps leading to the middle terrace 6b . On the way you’ll pass a water cistern and a plastered immersion bath, and you’ll see the beginning of the original flight of steps connecting the upper terrace of the palace to the middle terrace. In the center of the middle level of the palace was a circular hall surrounded by columns of which only the foundations remain. The hall was intended for receptions and meals; the niches in the cliff wall hint at the presence of a library. The steps leading to the lower terrace of the palace 6c are original. This level, which was also used for banquets and receptions, consisted of a chamber surrounded by stoas. Pilasters, once topped by Corinthian capitals that were painted and even bore gold leaf, stand against the southern wall. The outer walls of this central hall were plastered and covered with stucco, and the inner walls were covered with frescos depicting imitation marble slabs and geometric patterns. East of the hall a staircase descends toward a small bathhouse including a tepid room, a cold room, and a hot room. Finds here attest to the events of Masada’s last night – the skeletal remains of three individuals identified with the rebels, vestiges of clothing and sandals, arrows, and numerous pieces of mail armor. Among the most chilling finds was a woman’s braided hair, remarkably preserved. Return to the visitor route.
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