1st Century BCE Synagogue Discovered in Modi'in

Israeli archaeologists surveying the site of a planned new road have uncovered the remains of what is believed to be a Hasmonean period synagogue dating to the first century BCE (before the common era).

So far, coins, pottery, two stone inscriptions and the foundation layout have been discovered. Evidence was uncovered that the walls in the synagogue were decorated in red, orange and white plaster and rows of columns.

It is believed the synagogue settlement included a complex of several buildings with large courtyards. While the original buildings were inhabited as early as the first century BCE, it is believed they were destroyed during the Bar Kochba Revolt in the second century BCE.

For a full account of the discovery, click Synagogue.