Paradesi Synagogue

By the early years of the sixteenth century, there was already a flourishing Jewish community in Kochi composed mainly of Malabari Jews.  Within half a century, the city’s Jewish community had expanded considerably through the arrival of refugees from the Portuguese religious persecution of Jews locally from Cranganore and farther a field originating from Spain and Portugal. To serve this growing congregation, the Paradesi Synagogue was constructed in 1568 by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi.

Once you enter the Synagogue, you'll find the large main hall that depicts exhibits of rare antique objects adding charm to its interior. The light falling through the large open window in the Synagogue makes the sight of chandeliers and lamps more appealing and attractive. While on the other hand, the floor itself is another prime attraction which is adorned with hand-painted blue willow designed floor tiles. Each tile is different and unique in its design, which draws millions of visitors from different parts of the world.
The Jew Synagogue in Cochin is one of the few remaining of its kind in India and holds a significant historical presence for the Jewish community in India. In 2018, The Synagogue celebrates its 450thanniversary on December 6, with more than 100 guests expected to arrive from Canada, America, England and Israel.
The striking construction of the synagogue is unveiled in all its features and beautiful pillars. A pulpit with brass nails built in the middle of the room. A beautiful porch for women with golden columns and a carved teak Ark can be encountered in the Synagogue. You can find the teak Ark consists of four scrolls of Torah, covered in gold in silver. Not only this, two gold crowns of the Jewish Community which were presented by Kochi's king and Travancore are also displayed here. Other attractions of the synagogue are copper plates that belong to the 4th century displayed with inscriptions in Malayalam.
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam Railway Station, about 10 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 39 km
Google map coordinates: X745+XQ Kochi, Kerala