Archaeological Discovery: Synagogue Jesus Preached at Discovered in Mary Magdalene's Hometown

Catholic group the Legions of Christ have reportedly uncovered a 1st-century synagogue in the ancient town of Magdala in Israel, where they say Jesus Christ is likely to have preached to the people.

"Eighty percent of Jesus' public life was here," Father Eamon Kelly said about northern Israel, according to Haaretz.com.

Kelly revealed that his organization uncovered the synagogue after starting archaeological excavations at a site in the town of Magdala, believed to be the home of Mary Magdalene, known as one of Jesus' female disciples. The plots of land are supposed to be used to build a pilgrims' hotel, inter-faith chapel, a restaurant and a women's shelter.

"This is the first synagogue ever excavated where Jesus walked and preached," Kelly said, adding that it is "hugely important" for both Jews and Christians.

Experts have reportedly agreed that it is highly probable that Jesus would have preached at the Magdala synagogue, which is believed to have been built in year 1 A.D., before being upgraded in 40 A.D., and destroyed by the Romans sometime in 67 or 68. The town was located along an ancient trade route running from the Mediterranean to Egypt and Syria.

"He was a clever rabbi. He knew where to set up shop," Kelly said. "If you walk from Nazareth to Bethsaida to Capernaum, you're going to come out here."

He added that in ancient times, townsfolk would gather at synagogues for meetings. Read more at The Christian Post