Portuguese Synagogue of Amsterdam — Attraction in Amsterdam

If this is what the splendor of the Jewish synagogues back then. Imagine how well to do Portugal would have been if they wouldn’t have kicked out the Jews. They say originally King Fernando of Spain didn’t dislike the Jews as much as his wife Isabelle, but years of nagging made there mark. His own prime minister was Jewish the great Don Abarnel.( the great rumor of Christopher Columbus was the he was a secret Mariano and he was looking for a land that the Jews can finally be free)After the Spanish Inquisition, the prime minister had to run to Portugal. And a couple of years later the king of Portugal kicked out the Jews due to the pressure of his cousin the queen of Spain, Isabelle. Listen it was the Portuguese loss. Portugal is a nothing country now. USA is the best because nicest to the Jews. Whoever is nice to the Jews the country flourishes. Nowadays Portugal is offering citizenship the all the people that can prove that 500 years ago there ancestor’s lived there. You just have to think to ym yourself why would you go back to a country that burnt you’re ancestors at stake I wouldn’t...

Oh so grand and yet oh so simple. Over the years 1616 - 1670 it had to be built in an understated way in order not to upset the Protestant City magistrates. And on top of that, Dutch Protestant churches at the time were all about humbleness as well. There's only one 'Esnoga' and this is it. It has a few biblical temple details like the 'lion's feet' - most people don't know to look for. (all the way on the backside of the building). The Aron Ha-Kodesh (holy ark) built from Brazilian Jacaranda wood where the Torah scrolls are kept, is overpowering. The atmosphere is wonderful and if the winter shul (smaller synagogue for cold winter days) is open for visiting, it's gorgeous in its simplicity as well. You have to book an appointment to see the library, which has a world-class priceless collection of Judaica (Etz Haim). Absolute treasures from a literary point of view. It's worth it to request (book ahead) a private guide if you have the time. It'll help with security as well. Expect a good amount of security. Bring your passport for...

The oldest synagogue in Europe: one feels the lack of technology (heat or electricity) as soon as walking in. Simple in design but the wooden work and brass candelabra, the sumptuous existence and preservation care worth visiting. The audio tour has high benefits especially in the area still used by the Jewish community. Sterling silver vintage artifacts are active tools in the daily rituals of Judaism. Bring your own siddur (prayer book).

The 15€ ticket includes a visit to the Jewish Museum across the street and the Holocaust Museum which I had to cut from the list due to lack of time. So, 3 museums for the price of one if you start with the synagogue. Public toilets are available on...