Oldest Jewish Ritual Bath Discovered Near Rome

Archaeologists unearthed what is believed to be the oldest Jewish ritual bath outside Israel, shedding light on ancient Jewish life in Rome.

In a groundbreaking discovery, a team of archaeologists in Ostia Antica, Italy, has unveiled what is possibly the oldest mikvah, a Jewish ritual bath, outside of Israel. The structure, estimated to date back to the late fourth or early fifth century, was found while excavating a previously uncharted area near the ancient commercial port, which served as a hub for trading and shipping activities in Roman times.

Professor Luigi Maria Caliò from the University of Catania led the excavation, initially anticipating to find remains of warehouses or port facilities. However, the discovery of this ancient bath has taken on greater significance. Rome's chief rabbi, Riccardo Di Segni, noted the unparalleled importance of finding such an artifact outside of Israel, emphasizing its role in understanding the deep historical roots of Jewish culture in the region.

The Jewish presence in Rome dates back to the second century B.C., with communities established in both Rome and its neighboring coastal town, Ostia. The area is rich with remnants of Jewish heritage, including inscriptions from the Roman era, catacombs, and historical landmarks like the synagogue found in Ostia Antica.

This latest find not only enriches the narrative of the Jewish diaspora but also highlights the vibrant cultural exchanges that took place in ancient Rome, marking a pivotal moment in the study of historical Judaism in European contexts.