Exhibit Showcases Mosaic from Ancient Synagogue 

IFCJ Canada  |  July 17, 2026

The Yigal Allon Centre in the Galilee is hosting an exhibit on the ancient Jewish settlement of Hukok, featuring never-before-seen artifacts from the nearby archaeological site. The Jerusalem Post reports that the exhibit’s centrepiece is a complete synagogue floor mosaic depicting Samson carrying the gates of ancient Gaza on his shoulders (Judges 16:3). Other significant discoveries on display include a cache of bronze coins. 

The ruins of the ancient settlement of Hukok, which reached its peak during the Roman-Byzantine period, sit in the heart of the Amiad Forest in an open space near a spring of the same name. 

Visible from the museum’s windows, Hukok is best known for the impressive ancient synagogue uncovered during excavations by an archaeological mission led by Professor Jodi Magness of the University of North Carolina, where archaeologists unearthed several extraordinary mosaics, including rare biblical and extra-biblical scenes. 

“The range of the Hukok mosaics is unequalled by any other synagogue in Israel,” IAA noted. 

The original Samson Mosaic is the only one of the synagogue’s mosaics currently being displayed to the public. Alongside it, however, are photographs shared by Magness of the other mosaics within the synagogue. 

“The Hukok mosaics are some of the most exciting and moving finds I have ever been privileged to unearth,” said Magness. “I am delighted that the original Samson mosaic, alongside images of the site’s many other mosaics, are being displayed to the public so close to where they were found.” 

Hukok is a major archaeological site with a spring, ritual baths, and even an underground escape network being uncovered in recent years. The settlement is a testament to a life that revolved around the synagogue at the time of Roman-Byzantine rule. The site itself is still being prepared for public visitation. 

Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu says that the mosaic is the living voice of a Jewish community that dwelt in the Galilee 1,600 years ago – reading and teaching God’s Word.