3,859. The Gates and Fences of the Temple Mount

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 5:2

There were five gates leading to the Temple Mount: one each from the west, east and north, and two from the south. Each gate was ten cubits wide and 20 cubits tall (about 15’ x 30’). These gates had doors.

Hilchos Beis HaBechirah 5:3

Further inside, a lattice fence ten handbreadths tall (about 30”) surrounded the Temple Mount all around. Further inside this fence was a fortification ten cubits tall (about 15’) called the cheil. This is referenced in the Eicha 2:8: “He made the cheil and the wall mourn.” This is the wall around the Courtyard.