The dilapidated Machkemoh Wall, located adjacent to the Kosel
Maarovi, is undergoing reinforcement and restoration work
with the aid of the Antiquities Administration.
Built during the Mamluk Period, the Machkemoh Wall is
situated at the northern end of the open-air men's prayer
section. Scaffolding has been erected along the entire wall
and the entrances to all of the roofed areas of the men's
section, including Wilson Arch, have been sealed to protect
visitors.
The project includes strengthening the stones by refinishing
them and removing loose stones liable to fall out. The work
is being carried out by the National Center for the
Development of Holy Sites, the Western Wall Heritage
Foundation and the Antiquities Authority.
Rav Shmuel Rabinovitz, the rov of the Kosel and the other
holy sites in the Old City, said the Machkemoh Wall is not a
part of the Kosel Maarovi and does not serve as a support
wall for Har Habayis, thus the restoration work is not
subject to the halachos that apply to work on the Kosel
Maarovi, which require that the kedushoh of the stones
must be maintained in handling them.
He said a decision was made to begin work immediately due to
fears of stones falling on visitors, adding that he hopes the
project will be complete within three months.
