Ancient Jewish Ritual Bath Discovered in Ostia Reveals Cross-Cultural Exchange

In a recent CNN article, Barbie Latza Nadeau and Lianne Kolirin report on the discovery of an ancient Jewish ritual bath, or mikveh, in the ruins of Ostia, Rome’s historic port city. This find is significant as it is the oldest known mikveh outside of Israel and its surrounding regions, highlighting the long-standing Jewish presence in the heart of the Roman Empire.

The article first provides historical context on Ostia’s importance as a multicultural hub, then details the mikveh’s structure and archaeological significance. The discovery sheds light on the ways Jewish communities adapted religious practices in a Roman setting, emphasizing cultural continuity despite living under imperial rule. Artifacts like a menorah-decorated lamp further reinforce the deep integration of Jewish identity within Ostia’s diverse society. This find expands our understanding of how religious traditions persisted and evolved in ancient diasporic communities.

Steps leading down to the ancient Jewish ritual bath in Ostia, Italy.

Image Credit: Ostia Antica Archaeological Park