Herod's quarry unearthed

Israeli archaeologists have uncovered an ancient quarry where they believe King Herod extracted stones for the construction of the Jewish Temple 2000 years ago, the Israel Antiquities Authority said.

The archaeologists believe the 100sq m quarry was part of a larger network of quarries used by Herod.

The biggest stones would have measured 3m long, 2m across and 2m high.

The archaeologists said the size indicated they could have been used in the construction of the Temple compound, including the Western Wall, a retaining wall that remains intact and is a Jewish shrine.