Aelia Capitolina was modeled on the structure of Roman cities, in which main thoroughfares cross the urban grid lengthwise and widthwise. According to the Madaba Map, the Cardo began at the northern gate (today's Damascus Gate) and traversed the city in a straight line from north to south, ending at the southern gate. The broad thoroughfare was flanked by rows of columns and shops. 
Archaeological excavations have found remnants of street paving and many pillars. Probably the Cardo's northern section was built in the second century CE and it was extended southward in the sixth century. The southern section was uncovered by an archaeological expedition led by Prof. Nahman Avigad, and partially reconstructed. |
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