* World's Oldest Synagogue Discovered

(BY:Ariela Pelaia)

Archaeologists in Israel have discovered what they believe to be the world's oldest synagogue buried beneath a site that was slated to become the location of a new hotel. The synagogue is thought to be some 2,000 years old and contained a remarkable 120 square meter stone carved with a seven branched menorah.

Why is this so exciting? Because the synagogue dates to the period of the Second Temple, where the actual menorah was housed.  Since most of the menorah depictions that have been discovered were created after the Temple's destruction, the synagogue's stone is one of the most accurate representations found to date. Although a handful of contemporaneous menorah engravings have been uncovered, what makes this new one unique is its distance from Jerusalem. Located near the Sea of Galilee, the engraving indicates that the ancient Jewish world was more connected than previously thought. "The artist might have seen the menorah during a pilgrimage and then recreated it in the synagogue," suggested archaeologist Dina Avshalom-Gorni of the Israel Antiquities Authority.

The synagogue was discovered in an area known as Migdal, which plays an important role in Jewish history because the region was involved in the Great Revolt.  A spokesperson for the company responsible for developing the land said they were thrilled by the discovery and have plans to create a multi-cultural center at the location for people of every religious affiliation.

» posted in Famous Synagogues

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