A unique ancient Jewish bathhouse, or mikveh, has been discovered at Ostia Antica, Rome’s ancient port. It is next to the synagogue, and could be a pull for Jewish tourism.
Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli presented the find on Monday at the coastal site near Rome, alongside Rome’s Chief Rabbi Riccardo Di Segni. “We joyfully welcome the discovery of this mikveh in Ostia,” Giuli told reporters.
He explained that it is “unique in the Roman Mediterranean area and outside the land of Israel.” According to Giuli, the find is crucial for understanding the deep roots of the Jewish world within Roman civilisation.
“That this happened in Ostia is both joyful and surprising, but only up to a certain point,” he said. “Ostia was the gateway to the Mediterranean and hosted the original cults of many cultures now called Euro-African.”
He cited Cybele, the Great Mother, who arrived in Ostia from Pergamon in Anatolia before travelling up the Tiber to Rome.
“Ostia is not just a miniature Rome but a kind of prologue,” Giuli added. “What happens in Rome, the settlements that develop there, often have their origins here. Think of the 20 mithraea (temples to Mithras) found in Ostia, the temple of Isis and Serapis, a Constantinian basilica contemporary to the Vatican and Lateran ones. This site reflects Roman history in the Mediterranean and the development of European civilisation.”
He said the mikveh’s discovery strengthens this narrative of universal cultural exchange, aligning with Rome’s historic mission.
“It is no coincidence that the Jews of the diaspora found hospitality here, building relationships and achieving social status at the highest levels,” he said. “This fertile ground allowed a community to take root, one that still thrives today.”
“Rome,” Giuli concluded, “is a city that welcomes all civilisations and traditions, with the Jewish one being the oldest.”
A boost for Jewish tourism
Rabbi Di Segni told reporters that the bathhouse joined the existing synagogue at Ostia and could boost Jewish tourism. Despite its historical significance, Ostia is often overlooked by visitors, even though it is as rich in discoveries and beauty as Pompeii.
“There are many ritual baths in Israel and some from the Middle Ages in Europe,” Di Segni said. “But such an ancient mikveh has never been found in the entire diaspora. Rome now holds an exceptional Jewish archaeological heritage. We have the Arch of Titus, the catacombs, the synagogue of Ostia, and now this mikveh.”
Di Segni welcomed the discovery, calling it a rare positive event. “Usually, we discuss difficult historical topics, but this is something truly beautiful.”
He then urged Giuli to support Jewish tourism: “Let’s organise a circuit for visitors interested in Jewish history. Starting tomorrow, I will get calls from people wanting to see this site. This is a treasure—not just for specialists but for Jewish travellers worldwide.”
