Womens' Balcony
A gallery was reserved here for women who came to view the Simchas Beis Hasho'evah (Rejoicing of the Water Drawing Ceremony) which was held in this courtyard during the festival of Succot.

To the North and South of the Ezras Noshim (women's courtyard) were stairways leading to the Womens' Balcony.

Originally, the women assembled in the courtyard and the men danced and sang outside, beyond the Cheil.

Since the women were unable to have a good view from inside the Womens' Courtyard, they would pass beyond the doors into the area. The mingling of men and women during a sacred celebration is not permitted. To remedy the situation, balconies were erected to provide a viewing area for the women.