Synagogue Ben Ezra: A Testament to Jewish Heritage in Old Cairo
Explore Egypt's oldest synagogue in Old Cairo, a historical treasure trove with a blend of Jewish, Islamic, and Coptic influences and the famed Cairo Geniza.
Synagogue Ben Ezra, located in the historic Fustat area of Old Cairo, is a captivating landmark that reflects the enduring Jewish presence in Egypt. Believed to have been established in 882 AD, or possibly earlier, the synagogue has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history. It is thought to be built on the site where baby Moses was found. Originally a Christian church, it was sold to the Jewish community to cover taxes imposed by the Muslim rulers. The current building, dating back to 1892, showcases a basilica-style architecture with two floors. The first floor is for men, and the second is for women. The interior features ornate columns, arches, and stained glass windows depicting scenes from Jewish history. The Holy Ark, or Aron Kodesh, houses the Torah scrolls. The architecture reflects a fusion of Jewish, Islamic, and Coptic influences, with Islamic geometric patterns and motifs. One of the most significant discoveries at the Ben Ezra Synagogue was the Cairo Geniza, a collection of hundreds of thousands of medieval Jewish manuscripts. Found in the late 19th century, these documents provide invaluable insights into the social, economic, and religious life of the Jewish community in Egypt and the wider Mediterranean world. Today, the Ben Ezra Synagogue is a museum and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. It stands as a testament to the historical coexistence of different faiths in Cairo and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Egypt's Jewish community.
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and to fully appreciate the serene atmosphere of the synagogue.
- Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a religious site, and photography may be restricted inside.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Hanging Church and Coptic Museum to explore the rich history of Coptic Cairo.
- Check for any temporary closures or updated visiting hours before planning your visit.
A brief summary to Synagogue Ben Ezra
- 264J+7CV, Old Cairo, Kom Ghorab, Cairo Governorate, EG
- +201287896125
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach the Synagogue Ben Ezra via public transport, take the Cairo Metro Line 1 (red line) to Mar Girgis station. From the station exit, it's a short, approximately 2-minute walk to the synagogue. The metro fare is approximately 1 USD. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the area. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option from your starting point. Bus fares are typically very affordable, costing just a few Egyptian pounds.
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Taxi/Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are readily available throughout Cairo. Simply set your destination as Synagogue Ben Ezra or Coptic Cairo. Most drivers are familiar with the area. A short taxi ride from downtown Cairo to the synagogue typically costs around 1-2 USD, depending on traffic and distance.
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Walking
If you are already in the Coptic Cairo area, walking to the Synagogue Ben Ezra is a pleasant option. From the Hanging Church, it's just a minute's walk. As you explore the historic streets and alleyways, wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during the warmer months.
