Split Synagogue: A Testament to Jewish Heritage

Tucked away in Židovski Prolaz (Jewish Lane), within the historic Diocletian's Palace, the Split Synagogue is a remarkable testament to the city's rich Jewish heritage. Established in the early 1500s by Jews fleeing the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions, it stands as one of the oldest Sephardic synagogues still functioning today.Originally formed by combining the second floors of two medieval houses, the synagogue's current interior dates back to around 1728. The Aron Hakodesh, a sacred space facing Jerusalem, is built into the palace's western wall. Despite the community never exceeding a few hundred members, they significantly influenced the local economy, with figures like Daniel Rodriguez establishing a free port in Split.During World War II, the synagogue suffered damage at the hands of Italian Fascists. After the war, it was restored and later renovated in 1996 and 2015. Today, the synagogue continues to serve as a religious center and the headquarters for Split's Jewish community, which numbers around 100 people. Visitors can explore the synagogue and learn about the history of the Jewish community in Split, as well as visit the old Jewish cemetery on Marjan Hill, established in 1573.