Ancient Mosque Discovery Near Sea of Galilee Reveals Early Islamic History
Archaeologists have unearthed the foundations of a mosque dating back approximately 1,350 years near the Sea of Galilee in Israel. This discovery represents one of the earliest recorded mosques, constructed just one generation after the death of the Prophet Muhammad.
A Window into the First Islamic Communities
The mosque’s remains were found beneath a more modern mosque in the city of Tiberias, northern Israel. The foundations include stone walls that formed a prayer space, reflecting the layout of early mosques. Dr. Katia Cytryn-Silverman, the lead archaeologist from Hebrew University, emphasized the historical significance of the find.
“We realize about many early mosques established in the very beginning of the Islamic period,” she stated.
Unlike prominent mosques like the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina and the Great Mosque of Damascus, which have undergone extensive renovations and expansions hindering detailed archaeological study, this site offers a unique opportunity. “It’s impossible to excavate those sites, as they are generally located under mosques that are still in use. Here in Tiberias, we have an extraordinary opportunity to excavate the site and examine what lies beneath,” explained Cytryn-Silverman.
Dating and Architectural Insights
Initial analysis suggests the mosque was likely built in the second half of the 7th century CE, just decades after the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE. This makes it potentially older than the earliest mosques previously discovered in Wāsit, Iraq, estimated to have been built around 703 CE.
The structure is identified as a Friday mosque, the primary place of worship for the Muslim community, hosting the congregational Friday prayer.
The site was initially identified in the 1950s, but the remains were mistakenly interpreted as a Byzantine-era marketplace. This misidentification persisted until the late 2000s when archaeologist Yizhar Hirschfeld discovered a small, rough, asymmetrical circular foundation, which he believed was part of a later structure. Cytryn-Silverman recognized the similarity between the layout and the early 8th-century Great Mosque of Damascus.
The team determined that the so-called Byzantine walls were actually the foundations for the first row of columns of the early mosque, forming a semi-rectangular building approximately 22 meters long and 49 meters wide.
Religious Tolerance in Early Islamic Tiberias
The archaeological evidence suggests a period of religious coexistence. Muslims worshipping at the early mosque lived alongside Jewish and Christian communities, who also had religious buildings in the area, including a monumental church and the Hammat Tiberias Synagogue.
“So, our findings, which indicate that in its initial phase the mosque was a more modest and humble building compared to the houses of worship around it, indicate that the Islamization of the city took place gradually, that the fresh rulers were tolerant, and that the new religion adapted to the dynamics of the other religions,” Cytryn-Silverman noted.
Following the Muslim conquest of Tiberias and the surrounding area in 635, the region remained relatively tolerant.
The mosque underwent expansions in the 720s and 730s, including a courtyard and underground water reservoirs. A minaret, used to call Muslims to prayer, was likely added in the 800s. The mosque remained in use until the late 10th century, when it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1068, followed by the arrival of the Crusaders around 1100.
Future Research and Implications
This discovery provides valuable insights into the architecture, religious practices, and settlement patterns of early Muslim communities. It highlights the importance of archaeological research in understanding the complex history of the region.
Did you know?
The Sea of Galilee, although called a sea, is actually a freshwater lake and the lowest in the world.
FAQ
Q: How old is the newly discovered mosque?
A: Approximately 1,350 years old, dating back to the second half of the 7th century CE.
Q: Where is the mosque located?
A: In Tiberias, northern Israel, near the Sea of Galilee.
Q: What makes this discovery significant?
A: It is one of the earliest mosques discovered, offering insights into the early Islamic period and religious tolerance.
Q: What other religious structures were found nearby?
A: A monumental church and the Hammat Tiberias Synagogue were located in the same area.
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