Some observations on two enigmatic finds in the ancient synagogue of umm el-qanatir, golan heights

The article deals with two enigmatic and curious finds in the synagogue of Umm el-Qanatir in the Golan Heights, dated to the early Byzantine period: A) A figurative architectural element in secondary use, incorporated in the steps of the portico (facing Jerusalem), as a column base for one of its four columns. This element raises questions as to its artistic/stylistic nature, function and origin. b) A flagstone circle, containing four concentric octagons, located precisely in the centre of the nave of the prayer hall. Since it is unique to date among those ancient synagogues paved with flagstones, an attempt has been made to clarify its function and significance.