Preserving an ancient mosaic: Israeli specialists gather to conserve 1,500-year-old synagogue floor
Beit Alfa’s ancient synagogue was built during the Byzantine period, at the end of the fifth century CE, approximately 1,500 years ago. The mosaic floor was discovered in 1928.
Around two dozen conservation experts affiliated with Israel's Nature and Parks Authority convened at Beit Alfa National Park in northern Israel to restore the 1,500-year-old mosaic floor of the synagogue. The team, overseen by the Archaeology and Heritage Division, comprised specialists from throughout the country. Their mission involved delicately cleaning the surface, securing loose stones, and fortifying fragile sections of the mosaic.
To fill the gaps between the stones, they employed a technique called repointing, using materials that matched the original. Prior to and after the restoration, the INPA meticulously documented the mosaic's state to monitor its condition and inform future maintenance plans. Built during the Byzantine era at the end of the 5th century CE, the synagogue features a courtyard, corridor, main hall with the mosaic, a balcony, and an additional room.
An Aramaic inscription atop the floor mentions its completion during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, while a Greek inscription identifies the artists as Marianus and his son Hanina. The mosaic is divided into three vibrant panels, each depicting a biblical scene: the Ark of the Covenant, the zodiac, and the Binding of Isaac. The zodiac wheel, featuring the Greek sun god Helios, is flanked by seven-branched menorahs and a series of symbolic objects, including a shofar, fire pan, etrog, lulav, and two lions.
Professor Eleazar Lipa Sukenik discovered the mosaic in 1928, recognizing its significance early on. His son, Yigael Yadin, later made notable contributions to Israeli archaeology. Director Orit Bortnik of the INPA's Archaeology and Heritage Division expressed awe at the mosaic's intricate beauty, created from over 800,000 tiny stones laid 1,500 years ago.
She emphasized the significance of preserving this cultural treasure for future generations and praised the collaborative effort of the nation's conservation specialists. Bortnik invited visitors to Beit Alfa to witness the mosaic firsthand and appreciate the hidden stories contained within its stones.
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