Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum: A Barbadian Legacy
Discover the rich history of the Jewish community in Barbados at the Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bridgetown.
The Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum in Bridgetown is a significant historical landmark, being one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. Dating back to 1654, it tells the story of Jewish settlement in Barbados and their contribution to the island's history. The site includes a synagogue, museum, cemetery, and a mikvah (ritual bath), offering a multifaceted experience for visitors.
A brief summary to The Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum
- Synagogue Ln, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB
- +1246-436-6869
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds and have a more personal experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking between the synagogue, museum, and cemetery.
- Check the official website for any special events or temporary closures before your visit.
- Consider taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the site.
- Remember to bring local currency (BBD) for the bus, as foreign coins are not accepted on Transport Board buses.
Getting There
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Walking
From National Heroes Square in the center of Bridgetown, walk east along Broad Street. Turn right onto James Street, then left onto Synagogue Lane. The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
From either the Fairchild Street or Princess Alice bus terminals in Bridgetown, the synagogue 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. Barbados Transport Board buses, ZR vans (route taxis), and minibuses all service Bridgetown. 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.
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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), but confirm the price with the driver before starting your trip. Taxis can be identified by the 'Z' designation on their license plates.
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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. Alternatively, 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. Parking fees vary.
Discover more about The Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum
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