Synagogue in the Agora of Athens, Ancient synagogue ruins in Ancient Agora of Athens, Greece
The remains of an ancient Jewish synagogue lie within the Agora site near the northeast corner of the Metroon building. Here, archaeologists found marble pieces with Menorah and Lulav symbols, pointing to Jewish gatherings and prayer practices.
This site functioned as a place of Jewish prayer between the 3rd and 4th centuries and ranks among the earliest known Jewish houses of worship in the Mediterranean region. The founding and use of this synagogue show that Jewish communities lived in Athens even in ancient times.
The marble remnants here carry symbols of Jewish faith, showing how Jewish people practiced their religion in the ancient city. These objects connect visitors to religious customs that were part of daily life back then.
Access to this location is through the main entrance of the Agora archaeological site, where information about pathways and guides is available. The remains lie at an easy-to-reach spot within the excavation grounds, though they are modest and require some attention to notice.
This site connects to a biblical story: Paul is recorded as visiting a synagogue in Athens in the 1st century, something confirmed here for the first time through archaeological finds. The marble pieces with religious symbols are physical proof of a history that was long known only from ancient writings.
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