At the excavation site in the ancient Greek city of Phanagoria, in the Taman Peninsula of Russia’s Krasnodar region on the northern coast of the Black Sea, archaeologists discovered remnants of an ancient synagogue that was built during the late Second Temple period. The discovery was made about a year and a half ago and caused a stir throughout the Jewish world.
Last week, the first phase of excavations was completed, and rare findings were presented at a press conference held by Vladimir Kuznetsov, head of the Institute of Archaeology at the Russian Academy of Sciences.
“[One of the oldest synagogues] in the world was built in the early first century CE and destroyed in the sixth century by barbarian tribes,” the academy said. “It was located in the most prestigious area of the city, between two main roads, and was adorned with magnificent architectural decorations, including a bimah for Torah readings, seven-branched menorahs, and marble reliefs made from imported stone.
“The seating for worshippers was made of wood, and behind the synagogue was a large oven for baking bread. Clear evidence also points to the existence of a mikvah nearby. The entire area, situated close to the sea in the region separating the Azov Sea to the south and the Black Sea, was ideal for community life and was part of Phanagoria’s Jewish Quarter, which also included a winery, courtyards with clay irrigation barrels, residential buildings, and a water supply system. In the eastern part of the synagogue stood the Ark, and the western room was used for meals and gatherings. Among the ruins, tzedakah boxes and 58 copper coins were found on the floor.
“Phanagoria’s Jewish community was among the largest in the Mediterranean region, as evidenced by the vast number of tombstones bearing Jewish symbols. A unique discovery was Hebrew inscriptions on food items, suggesting that traveling Jewish merchants brought kosher products to Phanagoria. Surrounding the ancient synagogue’s ruins, the remains of the Jewish quarter were discovered, along with several Jewish artifacts from the first and second centuries CE,” the Russian Academy of Sciences said.
Rabbi Menachem Mendel Lazar, a Chabad shliach and rabbi in nearby Krasnodar, was invited to the site to witness the completion of the first phase of excavations. He told local media outlets: “We conclude that the Jewish community of that time adhered strictly to Jewish laws and traditions while at the same time respecting local customs and creating a comfortable living standard for all.”
In the sixth century, Phanagoria was attacked by a barbarian tribe. During the assault, the invaders launched stone cannonballs at the city, many of which were found near the ancient synagogue. This suggests that the city’s residents may have sought refuge behind its walls. The attack left the city in ruins. It was rebuilt 130 years later but eventually ceased to exit.
The site has been sealed off under a government order. Leading archaeologists from Russia are mapping the area and studying the rare artifacts. During the visit, researchers said the excavations indicated that the entire area was historically Jewish, and the synagogue had served the community for several generations.
Meanwhile, the sound of Torah and prayer is once again resonating in Krasnodar, which has a thriving Jewish community led by Rabbi Lazar, the son of Russian Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar שליט”א.
Photo: Volnoe Delo Foundation, Phanagoria
