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Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum: A Barbadian Treasure

Explore the oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere and delve into the captivating history of Jewish heritage in Barbados at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Discover the Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum in Bridgetown, Barbados, a significant historical landmark and one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to 1654. Explore the rich Jewish heritage of Barbados through its well-preserved architecture, interactive museum exhibits, and ancient mikvah.

A brief summary to The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Take advantage of the guided tours for a deeper understanding of the museum's exhibits.
  • Explore the cemetery for a unique glimpse into the island's history.
  • Check the opening hours, especially on Fridays, as they close earlier.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Fairchild Street or Princess Alice bus terminals in Bridgetown, the Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum is a 15-20 minute walk. From Fairchild Street, walk along Bridge Street, turn right onto James Street, then left onto Synagogue Lane. From Princess Alice Terminal, walk along the Princess Alice Highway, turn left onto Magazine Lane, then right onto Synagogue Lane.

  • Public Transport

    Barbados Transport Board buses, ZR vans (route taxis), and minibuses all service Bridgetown. From any major point in Saint James, take a ZR (minibus) to Bridgetown. Look for ZR minibuses heading towards 'Bridgetown' or 'Town'. Alight at the central bus terminal in Bridgetown and walk to Synagogue Lane. Head east on Broad Street, then turn left onto Synagogue Lane. The standard bus fare is BDS$3.50 (USD$1.75). Ensure you have local currency, as foreign coins are not accepted on Transport Board buses.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A taxi from the cruise port to the synagogue is approximately a 10-minute ride. The average taxi fare from the Bridgetown cruise terminal or a central Bridgetown hotel to the Nidhe Israel Synagogue is between BDS$19-BDS$74 (USD$9.50-USD$37). Confirm the price with the driver before starting your trip. Taxis can be identified by the 'Z' designation on their license plates.

  • Driving

    From Highway 1, follow signs for Bridgetown. Once in Bridgetown, navigate to James Street. Synagogue Lane is off James Street. Limited street parking is available near the synagogue. Paid parking is available at Mason Hall Car Park on Masonhall Street, a short walk west of the synagogue (approximately 440 meters). Be aware that downtown Bridgetown has many one-way streets.

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Discover more about The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum

The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum, located on Synagogue Lane in Bridgetown, Barbados, offers a profound journey through Barbadian Jewish history. Founded in 1654, it stands as one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. Sephardic Jews, fleeing persecution in Brazil, established a vibrant community here, with the Nidhe Israel Synagogue at its heart. The synagogue's history is intertwined with Barbados' broader narrative. The Sephardic Jews significantly contributed to the island's sugar industry, bringing valuable skills in sugarcane cultivation and production. The synagogue served as a religious, educational, and social center, fostering a strong community identity. Facing challenges over the centuries, including an 1831 hurricane, the synagogue was rebuilt in 1833. However, declining Jewish population led to its sale in 1929 and subsequent disrepair. Renewed interest in the 1980s led to its restoration, and it was rededicated in 1989. In 2008, a 17th-century mikvah (ritual bath) was discovered, believed to be the only one of its kind in the Americas. The Nidhe Israel Museum also opened in 2008, showcasing Jewish life in Barbados. The Synagogue Historic District, including the synagogue, museum, mikvah, and cemetery, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The museum features interactive displays, artifacts, and documents that trace the history of Jewish life in Barbados. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored synagogue, contemplate in its serene atmosphere, and appreciate the well-maintained cemetery with tombstones dating back to the 18th century.

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