Synagogue Kahal Zur Israel: A Journey Through Jewish History in Recife
Discover the history of the first synagogue in the Americas, a cultural landmark in Recife's historic district.
The Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue in Recife, Brazil, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the first Jewish community in the Americas. Established in 1636, this historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of Sephardic Jews who sought refuge in Dutch Brazil. Today, the synagogue functions as a museum and cultural center, showcasing artifacts and the rebuilt structure, including a mikveh, discovered through archaeological excavations.
A brief summary to Synagogue Kahal Zur Israel
- R. do Bom Jesus, 197, Recife, Recife, State of Pernambuco, 50030-170, BR
- +55813224-2128
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience.
- Check the museum's website for updated hours and any special events or exhibits.
- Explore the surrounding Recife Antigo area, known for its colorful buildings and historical sites.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the synagogue and the Jewish community in Recife.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Marco Zero Square, a central landmark in Recife Antigo, walk north on Avenida Alfredo Lisboa. Turn left onto Rua do Bom Jesus. The Synagogue Kahal Zur Israel will be on your right, a short walk down the street. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From Recife Central Station, take the Metro to the nearby Estação Recife. From there, transfer to a local bus that stops close to Recife Antigo. Get off near Marco Zero and walk north on Avenida Alfredo Lisboa, then turn left onto Rua do Bom Jesus. The Synagogue will be on your right. The bus and metro fare is approximately R$1.60 each.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Boa Viagem, a popular beach district, a taxi or ride-share to the Kahal Zur Israel Synagogue will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between R$25 and R$40. Ask the driver to take you to Rua do Bom Jesus in Recife Antigo.
Discover more about Synagogue Kahal Zur Israel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Arquivo Histórico Judaico de Pernambuco
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Ruínas do 2º Forte do Recife
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Antiga Muralha de Recife do Século XVII
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Praça do Arsenal da Marinha
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Recife
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Ponte Mauricio de Nassau
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Capela Dourada
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Monumento aos Heróis da Revolução de 1817
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Praça do Diário
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Monument Tortura Nunca Mais
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Casa do Carnaval
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Farol do Recife
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Centro do recife
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Recife Station
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Praça Sérgio Lorêto
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Unmissable attractions to see
Embassy of Pernambuco - Olinda Dolls Giants
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Paço do Frevo
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Rua do Bom Jesus
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Centro de Artesanato de Pernambuco
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Praça do Marco Zero
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Centro Cultural Cais do Sertão
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Parque de Esculturas Francisco Brennand
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Church of the Mother of God
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Praça da República
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Santa Isabel Theater
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Forte de São João Batista do Brum
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Memorial Chico Science
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Pátio de São Pedro
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Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
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Casa da Cultura de Pernambuco
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Essential places to dine
Arsenal do Sabor
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Guia Restaurante
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Restaurante Cultural Sabor de Pernambuco
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Cais Rooftop Lounge Bar
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Armazém Rio Branco
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seu boteco
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Retrô 17
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RESTAURANTE BRASILIANO
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Restaurante Morangus - Recife Antigo
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Rock & Ribs Lounge - Marco Zero
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Versatil Gastronomie
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Restaurante Leite
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Restaurante Vida Longa
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Vinagret's
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Maison Gourmet
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mistura POP
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Crabolando - Loja Colaborativa
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Barraca Aldeia das Artes
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Golpe Store Recife Antigo
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As Galerias
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Paço Alfândega Shopping
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Livraria Jaqueira - Recife Antigo
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Mega Shop
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Bons Tempos Antiquario
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Bakamoon Comic Store
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Verdad store
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Magic Center Recife
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 28
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Calidus Dancing Bar
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Bodega de Véio - Recife Antigo
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Burburinho Recifebar
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O Moedão - Bar
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Rota do Marujo Bar Rest e Eventos-Praça da Moeda -Recife Antigo
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Bar Zero Um
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Torres Bar e Comedoria
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Bar Do Reggae
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Babylon Station - Recife Antigo
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BOI NEON Bar
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Che Bar e Comedoria
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Morgana Bar
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Lisbela e Prisioneiros Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Cats Night Club
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Warehouse 14 Itaipava's
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Camarote Parador
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Clube Metrópole
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Downtown Pub ZN
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Oásis Night Club
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Beco do oleo
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Lux Nightlife Hub
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ARENA LORD DE OLINDA
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Clube Lenhadores de Olinda
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