Also known as the Great Jewish Revolt, the First Jewish-Roman War was the first of three major Jewish rebellions against their Roman conquerors. Catalysed by anti-taxation demonstrations and other underlying tensions, the uprising began in 66 CE during the reign of Emperor Nero, who sought to fund cultural aspects of his empire — the construction of theatres, the hosting of athletic games, etc. But it was his subjects who would have to pay the price.

Led by future emperors Titus and Tiberius Julius Alexander, the Roman army besieged Jerusalem, beginning on the 14th April 70 CE, only three days before Passover. Certain Jewish rebels made great progress; for instance, Adiabene managed to successfully tunnel under Jerusalem and set fires in critical locations in efforts to hinder Roman forces. However, the siege, which lasted five months, ended with a decisive Roman Victory and restored Roman rule over Jerusalem.

Indeed, the Siege of Jerusalem culminated with the destruction of the Second Temple, which was built in replacement of Solomon’s Temple following its destruction by the Babylonians.