A synagogue is, of course, a religious structure that can be identified with the Jewish faith. The earliest synagogues probably developed during the period of Babylonian exile perhaps as early as 6th century BC. Synagogues were mentioned in Egyptian papyri (as proseuchai) by the 3rd century BC, and probably served as prayer houses and hostels for pilgrims.
The earliest possible known synagogue foundation was found on the island of Delos, dated to the first century BC; it has an associated inscription which mentions Zeus Hypsistos, some believe is a name for the Jewish God. Indisputable archaeological evidence for a synagogue is from the synagogue of Theodotos in Jerusalem, dated to the 1st century AD. Excavated synagogues include ones at Masada and Herodium, dated to the time of the first Jewish revolt against the Romans (66-74 AD). Beth Alpha synagogue in what is now Israel and Na'aran in Palestine/Israel dates to the 6th century AD.
Sources
Jodi Magness. 1996. Ancient Synagogues. Oxford Companion to Archaeology, ed by Brian Fagan. Oxford University Press, London.This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
