Jewish Synagogue - Kochi - India

Jewish Synagogue

The Jewish Synagogue in Kochi, India is a beautiful and historic place of worship for the Jewish community in the city. It is located in the heart of the city, near the Mattancherry Palace. The synagogue was built in 1568 and is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. It is also known as the Paradesi Synagogue, which means “foreigner’s synagogue” in the local language. The synagogue is a beautiful building with a white façade and a blue-tiled roof. Inside, the synagogue is decorated with intricate hand-painted Chinese tiles, Belgian chandeliers, and a large, ornate golden ark. The synagogue also houses a collection of ancient scrolls and artifacts, including a 500-year-old copper plate inscribed with Hebrew text. The synagogue is open to visitors, and guided tours are available.