Portugal Synagogue is the only Izmir synagogue named directly after the origin of its founders. It belongs to the older Kemeraltı quarter and is one of the six synagogues known to have existed during the time of Chief Rabbi Joseph Escapa in the 1620s.
- Area: Kemeraltı (First Juderia)
- Noted as: the only synagogue named for its founders’ origin
- Built: existed by the 1620s
- Status: Restored 2018; social and cultural venue
History
For its period, Portugal Synagogue was described as the largest in Izmir. In the seventeenth century it became caught up in the Sabbatai Zvi episode. The synagogue was at first a stronghold of Zvi’s opponents and closed its doors to him. Later, Zvi and his followers forced their way in and drove out the opposing rabbis, and the building became a centre of the Sabbataian movement.
The synagogue was damaged by fire in 1976. It was restored and reopened in 2018 as a centre for social and cultural activity.
Why it matters
Portugal Synagogue is both a religious heritage site and a public cultural venue. It shows how a historic building can continue to serve the community after its regular liturgical role has changed.
Visiting
Please read Visit before making any plans. Access to historic synagogues may require prior permission.
