Jerusalem couple uncovers 2,000-year-old mikvah

Making headlines around the world, the Israel Antiquities Authority has confirmed that a mikvah discovered underneath the living room floor of a family home in Jerusalem's Ein Kerem neighbourhood is approximately 2,000 years old.

The ritual bath – used in conversions to Judaism and to fulfil family purity laws – was also a treasure trove containing stone vessels and pottery dating back to the period of the Second Temple, which was destroyed in 70 BCE.

The family residing in the home had purchased it three years ago, but were fearful to report their finding at the time, believing that the authorities would hold up a planned renovation or prevent them from staying there.

There fears were put to rest, and now the home is far more valuable to them than they had ever dreamed.

See how they made the discovery in the video clip below.