A remarkable discovery beneath an Israeli prison has revealed an ancient mosaic, potentially as significant as the Dead Sea Scrolls. Dating back 1,800 years, the mosaic features a Greek inscription: "The god-loving Akeptous has offered the table to God Jesus Christ as a memorial."
This 581-square-foot artwork, found at Megiddo prison, is believed to be part of the world's oldest prayer hall, dating to around 230 AD. It provides tangible evidence of early Christians recognizing Jesus' divinity and includes early Christian imagery, such as fish.
Initially discovered in 2005, the mosaic is currently on loan to the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., until July 2025. Experts consider it a crucial find for understanding early Christianity. The mosaic, found in the Jezreel Valley, also mentions a Roman officer, Gaianus, and several women, including Akeptous, Primilla, and others, whose roles are unknown. The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) restored the mosaic, which is now on display in the US before returning to Israel.