Famous Synagogues of Istanbul
7 hand-picked places in İstanbul, with photos, notes and a map.
GeziBilen · Digital Guide
Istanbul's synagogues are important religious and cultural centers that reflect the city's multicultural and tolerant nature. These sacred places, stretching from the historical peninsula to Galata, from Balat to Kuzguncuk, bear the traces of the Jewish community in the rich history of the Ottoman Empire.
1. Yanbol Synagogue
The Yanbol Synagogue in Balat was built by Romaniote Jews in the early 15th century. Over time, it became a place of worship for Jews from the Bulgarian city of Yanbol. The synagogue has a courtyard with Byzantine buildings and its interior is notable for its wooden doors inlaid with mother-of-pearl. It is only open on important holidays and the Sabbath.
2. Ahrida Synagogue
The Ahrida Synagogue in Balat is one of the largest synagogues in Istanbul and has been in active use since the 15th century. It draws attention with its teva, which architecturally resembles the prow of a ship. The synagogue served Romaniote and Sephardic Jews and was taken under protection in 1987.
3. Yenikoy Synagogue
Located in Yeniköy, the Yeniköy Synagogue was built in the 1870s. Renovated in 2000 and given a contemporary structure, the synagogue draws attention with its Star of Solomon relief and lighting system. It is open for worship on Saturday mornings and religious holidays.
4. Tailors Synagogue
The Terziler Synagogue in Beyoğlu was opened in the late 1800s and was restored in the 1980s after being closed for many years. Today, it functions as an art gallery with a 19th-century atmosphere.
5. Ashkenazi Synagogue
The Ashkenazi Synagogue near the Galata Tower was built in 1900 by Jews of Austrian origin and is the only active Ashkenazi synagogue in Istanbul. It is notable for its interior chandeliers brought from Vienna and Islamic architectural motifs. Worship and religious ceremonies continue to be held here.
6. Neve Shalom Synagogue
The Neve Shalom Synagogue in Beyoğlu was opened in 1951 and is the largest synagogue in the Sephardic Jewish community in Turkey. The synagogue hosts Shabbat services and various religious events and is notable for its architectural beauty.
7. Zulfaris Synagogue
The Zülfaris Synagogue in Galata has existed since 1671. Rebuilt in the 19th century, the synagogue was converted into a museum in 1992 and opened as the Turkish Jewish Museum in 2001.
