Israelis Report Oldest-Known Synagogue

JERUSALEM — Israeli archeologists have found what is believed to be the world’s oldest synagogue in the ruins of a 2,000-year-old palace outside the West Bank city of Jericho.

The synagogue, which dates between 50 BC and 70 BC, was uncovered by archeologists in the ruins of a Maccabean winter palace, archeology professor Ehud Netzer said Sunday.

Netzer said worshipers would have sat on a bench running along pillars in the synagogue’s basilica-shaped hall. The Torah, the Jewish holy book, was most likely read in the middle of the room.

In an adjoining room, archeologists found a U-shaped bench that Netzer said was probably used for ceremonial meals. The synagogue was not lavish, he said, but its floors may have been carpeted.

Netzer said the synagogue was important not only because of its age and direct connection with the Maccabean monarchy, but also because it gives scholars “a clearer picture of the nature and form of synagogues that existed in the land of Israel prior to the destruction of the [Second] Temple” in AD 70.

The synagogue and the palace were destroyed in an earthquake in 31 BC, and King Herod later built another palace over the ruins.