Obj. ID: 503
Ancient Jewish Art  Meroth Synagogue

The synagogue is in a basilica plan, oriented north south. Three entrences were located at the south facade. A cortyard with a cistern in its center is located infront of the facade. The synagogue is divided by two rows of six columns and one pilaster in each row, into a main nave and two aisles. The floor of the first phase of the first stage (A1) covered with a plaster, The second phase (A2) covered with mosaic probably depict David, with the weapons he took from Goliath (1Sam. 17:24). At the second phase (B) the floor was covered with a stone pavement. benches were found along the long walls. two bemas were built flanking the main In the third stage (C) the synagogue underwent basic renovation. The facade was transferred to the north and three new entrances were added. while the south facade was rebuilt and its three entrances blocked up. Part of the staircase leading to the gallery was uncovered in this phase. A storeroom with vaulted roof adjoined the synagogue on the west, under it was found the synagogue's treasury contained 485 coins. The courtyard was turned into a Beth Midrash. The ceiling was supported by two arches, the hall was coated with high-quality painted plaster. The floor covered with a mosaic. Benches were found along the walls, in the bench of the western wall there is a recess, apparently for the chair of the leading scholar. The portici turned to a classroom for childern.