Magdala
About Magdala
Magdala is believed to have been the hometown of Mary Magdalene. It is likely that Jesus would have preached in Magdala during His ministry when He was based nearby in Capernaum.
Ancient Magdala
Magdala was a thriving fishing village during the 1st century on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. It was an important town because of its excellent salted fish and important Roman markets.
Archaeological Park
Excavations have uncovered the Migdal Synagogue (referred to as the First Century Synagogue), the oldest synagogue excavated in Galilee and one of seven 1st century synagogues in the world. Archaeologists also found the Magdala Stone carved with a relief of one of the earliest representations of a seven-branched menorah over a pedestal.
Interesting Facts
- Magdala means “tower” in Hebrew.
- The synagogue is adorned with mosaics and frescoes of the Greco-Roman influence in the Herodian period.
- The stone dates to the time when the Second Temple stood on the Temple Mount.
