In 2009, excavations at Magdala (Mary Magdalene's home town) on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee uncovered a 1st-century synagogue. At its center was a unique carved limestone block depicting the Second Temple's menorah, altar, and architectural elements — possibly the work of an artisan who had personally seen the Temple in Jerusalem before its 70 AD destruction.
Why this matters
A 1st-century synagogue with art only an eyewitness to Herod's Temple could have made, in the town where Mary Magdalene lived. Jesus likely taught in this very building during his Galilean ministry.
Scripture references
Luke 8:1-3Matthew 27:55-56Mark 16:9
Location
Magdala, Israel