Archaeologists Discover Ancient Jewish Quarter During Synagogue Excavations in Southern Russia
Rabbi of nearby Krasnodar and Jewish delegation marvel at rare artifacts presented at Oleg Deripaska’s Volnoe Delo Foundation press conference
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 unearthed remnants of an ancient synagogue that was built during the late Second Temple period. This groundbreaking discovery, made during archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Phanagoria with the support of Oleg Deripaska’s Volnoe Delo Foundation, 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 Phanagoria Archaeological Expedition.
“[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,” Kuznetsov 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,” Kuznetsov added.
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. The exploration of the ancient city is funded by Russian Jewish billionaire Oleg Deripaska. 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: Oleg Deripaska’s Volnoe Delo Foundation, Phanagoria
