One of the World’s Oldest Synagogues Uncovered Near the Sea of Galilee in Israel
A 2,000-year-old synagogue from the Second Temple period was discovered this month during archaeological excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority in Migdal near the Sea of Galilee.
The 390-square-foot synagogue contains mosaic floors and walls covered with frescos. Also, a square stone featuring sides adorned with reliefs and engraved with a seven-branched menorah was discovered in the hall atop a pedestal with a triangular base.
“This is the first time a menorah decoration was discovered from the Second Temple Period,” says Dina Avshalom-Gorni, Excavation Director, Israel Antiquities Authority, “And the synagogue that was uncovered joins just six other synagogues in the world that are known to date to the Second Temple Period.”
The location of the synagogue, Migdal, is mentioned in ancient Hebrew text as playing an important role during the Great Revolt and serving as the main base of Josephus Flavus, commander of the rebellion in the Galilee.
For more information, visit www.antiquities.org.il.
For more information about travel to Israel, visit www.goisrael.com
October 1, 2009
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