Possible Oldest European Synagogue Discovered in Italy

"I have made a new, important discovery, together with Michele Di Lecce and Maurizio Camerini, which I am still investigating.It concerns an epigraphic inscription found in the Sassi, probably dating between the 6th and 10th centuries BCE. It could open up sensational scenarios," said Donato Rizzi, a 67-year-old artist from Matera, who, after 20 years of passionate and meticulous research, has identified what "could be the oldest synagogue in Europe, predating the birth of Christ."

The synagogue is located in a cave on Via Madonna delle Grazie, in the Conche district, the heart of Sasso Caveoso. According to studies conducted by Rizzi and international experts, a Jewish quarter existed in that area until the 16th century, before the Spanish expulsion edict forced the Jewish community to leave the territories of the Kingdom of Naples, CE Report quotes ANSA.

The discovery has already received an initial authoritative recognition: in September 2019, the site was visited by two important representatives of the Jewish community, Rabbi Herschel Gluck (a rabbi and officer of the Order of the British Empire) and Rabbi Bruno Fiszon (Chief Rabbi of Metz and the Moselle, and scientific advisor to the Chief Rabbi of France), in the presence of then-mayor Raffaello De Ruggieri. Both spoke of "unequivocal signs," citing the presence of typical elements of Jewish liturgy, such as the altar for reading the Torah (Tevà), the ritual bath (Mikveh), as well as inscriptions and symbols linked to Jewish tradition.

This confirmation strengthened Rizzi’s determination to continue his research.

"I never stopped, because I found unmistakable elements of Jewish culture," he said. "I sought scientific confirmation and time is proving me right. After the initial enthusiasm, however, institutional interest has waned. Now I expect concrete support to achieve definitive certification and be able to say without hesitation that this is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. I am increasingly convinced of this."

The artist’s appeal is not only personal but opens broader reflections on the religious, historical, social, and economic value of such a discovery:

"We have the duty to go all the way, to know and recognize our roots," he added. "Over the years, I have rediscovered Materan customs, sayings, and popular traditions that clearly connect us to the Jewish world. I am convinced we are close to confirming something extraordinary. My message is one of knowledge and awareness."