The three lower stones at the entrance – called the threshold – once supported and secured a two-piece door, providing a durable and attractive entrance into the building. The threshold at our synagogue was replicated from Gamla - the best preserved example from a 1st Century synagogue.

As they were set into the wall using little or no mortar, door jambs had to be carved as square as possible. Large one-piece and two-piece limestone jambs were commonly used in synagogues throughout the Roman Period.

Threshold and door jambs are built, as capital raising and crowning continue.

The door plan - researched by Professor Stephen J. Pfann - is based on evidence of ancient doors found at Qumran.  

The door itself - built by Yeshua Drey, a specialist in ancient technology restoration - is a two-piece design of heavy oak planks, mortised and fastened together with large wrought iron nails.

Samir putting the finishing touches on the door