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A rare discovery was made at the Ostia Antica archaeological park near Rome: A ritual purification bath (mikveh) dating back approximately 1,600 years was uncovered during excavations conducted at the site in recent months. Additionally, an ancient synagogue, one of the oldest in Europe, was also discovered. The excavations were part of the Ostia Post Scriptum project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Culture.
Ostia Antica is a famous archaeological site that preserves the remains of the ancient city of Ostia, which served as the port of ancient Rome. The site contains impressive ruins of ancient buildings, making it a popular tourist attraction.
According to the Finestre Sull’Arte website, despite its strategic location, the area had never been properly explored until recent years. During excavations in a large and elaborate structure, a small space with an underground well for drawing groundwater — likely used as a mikveh — was uncovered. Among the remnants of the rooms, a hole was found, suggesting the presence of a pipe for water supply.
Additionally, an oil lamp decorated with Jewish symbols, including a menorah and a palm frond, was discovered. A nearly intact glass goblet, dated to between the 5th and 6th centuries CE, was also found. Signs of a mikveh for immersing utensils were identified during the excavations. The mikveh featured tiles and a coating that were common as flooring at the time.
"The discovery of an ancient Jewish mikveh at the Ostia Antica archaeological park strengthens historical awareness of this site as a true crossroads of coexistence and cultural exchange—a cradle of tolerance among different peoples within Roman civilization. It represents something unique from the Roman period outside the land of Israel and demonstrates how deeply rooted Jewish presence was in the heart of the Romans," Italy's Minister of Culture, Alessandro Giuli, said.
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Alfonsina Russo Tagliente, head of the Italian department for the enhancement of cultural heritage, said: "The discovery of the first ancient mikveh outside the borders of Israel cannot help but make us proud. At the same time, it is imperative that the site be made accessible to the public as soon as possible."
Rabbi Shmuel Riccardo Di Segni, Chief Rabbi of Rome's Jewish community, added: "This discovery is of great interest on so many levels — archaeological, historical and ritualistic. The history of the Jews of Rome is now enriched with another significant monument. It is likely that much of the site, if not all of it, was a Jewish communal center. I hope the excavations will lead to further surprises and that the site will soon be open for visitors."
Victor Fadlon, president of Rome's Jewish community, called it "the oldest find of its kind in the Diaspora – outside of Israel – and it is a source of great excitement."