Paradesi Synagogue
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The Paradesi Synagogue, also known as the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or the Mattancherry Synagogue (Malayalam: പരദേശി ജൂതപള്ളി), stands as a historic landmark in Jew Town, a suburb of Kochi, Kerala, India. Erected in 1568 A.D. by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi, this synagogue was a testament to the vibrant Paradesi Jewish community in Kochi, comprising both Malabari Jews and Sephardic refugees fleeing religious persecution in Spain and Portugal. As the oldest active synagogue within the Commonwealth of Nations, Paradesi Synagogue reflects a fascinating blend of Indian and Portuguese influences. The term "Paradesi" translates to "foreigners" in several Indian languages, aptly characterizing the synagogue's builders, who were Sephardic or Portuguese-speaking Jews, some hailing from exile in Aleppo, Safed, and other West Asian locales. Nestled in Jew Town, the synagogue is a rare operational relic among the seven synagogues in the vicinity. Although the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue (1544 A.D) and Thekkumbhagam Synagogue (1647 A.D) are older, they are no longer in use. The Paradesi Synagogue complex, comprising four buildings, shares a common wall with the Mattancherry Palace temple, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance. The synagogue's history is intertwined with the Malabari Jews, a prosperous trading community controlling a significant portion of the global spice trade. The Paradesi Synagogue, constructed adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace in 1568, replaced the original Cochin synagogue destroyed during the Portuguese persecution in the 16th century. The present synagogue, protected by the Raja of Kochi, became a place of worship for the Sephardim and later European exiled Jews. Visitors to this architectural marvel are greeted with a serene and beautifully maintained place. A nominal entry fee of 10 rupees is required to explore the rich history, intricate architecture, and cultural significance encapsulated within the Paradesi Synagogue. This historic gem stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jewish community in Kochi.
Rachita CRachita C
00
he Paradesi Synagogue, also known as the Cochin Paradesi Synagogue, is a beautiful and historic synagogue located in Fort Kochi, Kerala, India. It is one of the oldest synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations, and the oldest in India. The synagogue was built in 1568 by the Malabar Jewish community, and is one of the most important Jewish sites in India. The synagogue is a beautiful example of Portuguese-Jewish architecture, with a distinctive red-tiled roof and white walls. The interior of the synagogue is just as impressive, with intricate wood carvings, hand-painted tiles, and chandeliers. The synagogue is also home to a number of important Jewish artifacts, including a Torah scroll that is over 500 years old. The Paradesi Synagogue is a popular tourist destination, and is open to visitors for tours. Visitors are required to dress modestly and cover their heads when entering the synagogue. The synagogue is a fascinating place to learn about the history of the Jewish community in India, and is a must-visit for any visitor to Fort Kochi. Here are some of the things you can expect when visiting the Paradesi Synagogue: See the beautiful architecture of the synagogue, including the red-tiled roof and white walls. Admire the intricate wood carvings, hand-painted tiles, and chandeliers inside the synagogue. Learn about the history of the Jewish community in India. See the Torah scroll that is over 500 years old. Take a tour of the synagogue and learn about its history and significance. Here are some tips for visiting the Paradesi Synagogue: Dress modestly and cover your head when entering the synagogue. Arrive early to avoid the crowds. Take your time and explore the synagogue at your own pace. Be respectful of the synagogue and its religious significance. The Paradesi Synagogue is a beautiful and historic synagogue that is well worth a visit. It is a fascinating place to learn about the history of the Jewish community in India, and is a must-see for any visitor to Fort Kochi.
MEHULRAJ NADARMEHULRAJ NADAR
00
The Jewish Synagogue, also known as Paradesi Synagogue, is a place of worship located in the old Jew Town within Mattancherry locality of Kochi (Cochin), Kerala. It is adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace and shares a common wall. It was built in 1568 AD and is the oldest in the commonwealth countries. A not very wide but clean lane about 400 m long and lined by old buildings on both sides lead to the synagogue. One finds many shops selling memorabilia and other merchandise along the path. Benches are placed at strategic places to take photos and to savour the moment. The lane and the synagogue are a pedestrian only area. The lane ends at the clock tower of the synagogue. Just before the clock tower, to the left is the entrance to the synagogue. The entrance is through a small room where the shoes are kept and mementos are sold by the synagogue. Some old scrolls can also be seen in the adjoining room. The room opens in a small courtyard beyond which is the main building of the synagogue. The outside of the building doesn't look awe-inspiring but once you step inside, you are spell bound by the grandeur of a magnificent brass-railed pulpit, many Belgian glass chandeliers, full length mirrors and velvet curtains. The synagogue has the Scrolls of the Law, several gold crowns and 10th-century copper plates of privileges. The floor is covered with hundreds of 18th century, indigo coloured, hand-painted Chinese porcelain tiles, of which no two tiles are the same. The synagogue is still used as a place of worship and therefore shorts, sleeveless T-shirts, short skirts and revealing dresses are not allowed. There is an entry fee and the synagogue is not open on Sundays to the visitors. Undoubtedly, a must visit place when visiting Kerala.
Abhijit MoitraAbhijit Moitra
20
The Paradesi Synagogue, located in Jew Town, Fort Kochi, Kerala, India, is a significant historical and religious site. Built in 1568, it is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. The term "Paradesi" means "foreigners" in several Indian languages, referring to the synagogue's original congregation, which consisted of Sephardic Jews who migrated from Spain, Portugal, and later, the Middle East. The synagogue's architecture reflects a blend of Jewish, Dutch, Portuguese, and local Kerala styles. Its interior features ornate chandeliers, Belgian glass lamps, intricately hand-painted Chinese tiles, and a gold pulpit. The synagogue is also home to rare artifacts, including a 13th-century copper plate inscribed in Hebrew. One of the most notable aspects of the Paradesi Synagogue is its hand-painted, blue-and-white Chinese porcelain tiles, which adorn the floor and walls. Each tile is unique and depicts various motifs, including floral designs, birds, and other decorative elements. The synagogue's prayer hall, with its teakwood ark containing Torah scrolls, is the focal point of worship for the remaining Jewish community in Kochi, which is now small in number. Despite its diminished congregation, the Paradesi Synagogue continues to be a significant cultural and historical landmark, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its architecture, artifacts, and rich heritage.
SANDEEP KUMARSANDEEP KUMAR
20
The Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi is a remarkable testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala. Nestled in the heart of the bustling Jew Town, this 16th-century Jewish house of worship stands as a beacon of history and spirituality. Visitors are often captivated by its serene ambiance and the intricate hand-painted Chinese tiles that adorn the floors, each tile unique in its design. The synagogue also houses several antiquities, including Belgian glass chandeliers and century-old Torah scrolls, which add to the sense of reverence and timelessness. The experience is further enriched by the neighborhood’s vibrant streets, lined with antique shops and spice markets, offering a glimpse into the local life and heritage. The Paradesi Synagogue is not just a place of worship but a gateway to understanding the once-flourishing Jewish community in Kochi. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the confluence of cultures and the stories of communities that have shaped Kochi’s identity over the centuries. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious, the Paradesi Synagogue promises an enriching and thought-provoking visit. It’s a place where the whispers of the past meet the presence of the present, inviting reflection and respect for the diverse threads that weave the human story
nikhil krishnannikhil krishnan
00
The Paradesi Synagogue, over a century old, stands in Jew Town, Mattancherry, offering a glimpse into history. Built in 1568, it is the oldest in the Commonwealth. Destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662, the Dutch reconstructed it two years later. "Paradesi" means foreigner, denoting the White Jews from Kodungalloor, the Middle East, and Europe. The synagogue's main hall dazzles with rare antiques, illuminated by 19th-century Belgian chandeliers. The hand-painted blue willow patterned floor tiles from Canton, China, are a marvel. The synagogue features a central pulpit, a women's gallery, and a teak Ark housing Torah scrolls, adorned with gold crowns. Copper plates from the 4th century detail privileges granted by the Cochin king. Ceremonies are conducted based on the availability of a minyan. Open daily, except Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays, the synagogue welcomes visitors barefoot between 10 am to 12 noon and 3 pm to 5 pm.
Kru SKru S
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Nearby Attractions Of Paradesi Synagogue
Mattancherry Palace
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Address
X745+XPW, Synagogue Ln, Jew Town, Kappalandimukku, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India
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Description
The Paradesi Synagogue aka Cochin Jewish Synagogue or the Mattancherry Synagogue is a synagogue located in Mattancherry Jew Town, a suburb of the city of Kochi, Kerala, in India. It was built in 1568 A.D. by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi for the flourishing Paradesi Jewish community in Kochi.
attractions: Mattancherry Palace, Cochin Thirumala Devaswom Temple, Jew Town Fort Kochi, St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church, Gallery OED, Antique Museum Kochi, International Tourism Police Station And Police Museum, Shri Vithoba Devasthan, Mattancherry, restaurants: Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe, Hotel City Star, Ginger House Restaurant, Sri Krishna Café, Mocha Art Café, B For Biriyani, Nooriya Hotel, Hotel Arafa, MeltyWay, Vijaya Lakshmi Bhavan
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