Izmir Synagogues Tour
Description
On this tour, we will visit 5 different synagogues in Izmir City. That places belong to Jewish people originally but fortunately, when we fill out some documents about you, we can get permission to visit these places. You will visit 5 synagogues and the guide will give you some information like the story of Jewish people in Izmir because the story goes to the 16th century. Guests will see the architecture of those synagogues, the stories the big actions that happened in those places. For the records, Izmir Jewish Community Center may request your passport information. Agency will be in contact with you for those requirements.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We start our tour from Bikur Holim Synagogue. There are lots of new parochets that can be seen in this Synagogue. Also, Temple Menorah (seven-branched candelabrum) and Hanukkah Menorah (nine-branched candelabrum) are located there especially from the 18th of November to the 26th of November along the Hanukkah.
As a meaning, it's a Life of a Tree. There are some Byzantine Empire orders can be seen, because dates back to that period. Hanukkah Menorah is located here. Because of the fire, this synagogue was also damaged but it was "saved" just before the roof fall down. Now it's restarted, some of the "memories" from the fire can be seen.
The name of this synagogue is given by a Dutch Jewish woman. According to the stories, the woman called Donna Gracia or La Signora was the foundation of this synagogue. Like all other synagogues, was damaged by fire several times in the 16th and 17th centuries. Thanks to the Moiz Bengiat Yerushalmi was rebuilt again.
The other name is El Kal de la Tromba Synagogue. Joseph Escaba, religious leader of the Jewish Community in Izmir, made the first organization in here. In 1841, here was the only church that wasn't damaged by the fire, there is a signboard at the entrance your guide will mention it.
After that, we use TRAM to go to the next synagogue. While we're walking to the station, you can take your "Boyoz" which is a unique food belonging to the Sephardic Jewish people.
Bet Israel is the biggest synagogue in Izmir. Synagogue was opened to visitors in 1907 but all of those decorations were finished in around 1950s. According to the stories wooden carvings were made by Italian artists. Now, that sanctuary is used for special events.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(3)
Intensive tour with an expert, attentive guide. The tour allows to visit several, very different synagogues at your leisure. Hihly recommended to travellers interested in the peculiar history of Smyrne.
Thank you for your thoughtful review! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the intensive tour and found the synagogues fascinating. Our expert guide is indeed dedicated to providing an in-depth experience, especially for those interested in the unique history of Smyrna. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back on another journey through history with us.At the name of Gezenthi Travel.
