PHOTOS: Massive Stone That Fell From The Kosel Is Moved, Awaiting Decision From Rabbonim

(PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

The Antiquities Authority on Wednesday morning worked together with the Kosel Heritage Foundation to safeguard the large boulder that fell on the southern side of the Kosel earlier in the week, to preserve it in accordance with its kedusha until a decision is made regarding its future.

According to professional sources, the weight of the stone is estimated at 400 kilograms, and it was transferred by means of a special crane to the Kosel Plaza, on the remains of the Mughrabi Gate.

In the coming days, Rav of the Kosel and Holy Sites Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, will hold halachic consultations with the Chief Rabbis of Israel and HaGaon HaRav Avigdor Nebenzahl Shlita, Rav of the Old City, after receiving the engineering possibilities from the Israel Antiquities Authority.

The Chief Rabbis of Israel released a statement in which they expressed their appreciation to Culture Minister Miri Regev and to the Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, Mr. Israel Hasson, and the IAA staff for their sensitivity and professionalism in dealing with this exceptional event.