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Kahal Shalom Synagogue: A Testament to Rhodes' Jewish Heritage

Explore Greece's oldest synagogue in Rhodes' Medieval Town, a testament to Sephardic heritage and resilience through centuries of history.

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Kahal Shalom Synagogue, established in 1577, stands as the oldest synagogue in Greece and the only remaining one on the island of Rhodes. Located in the historic Jewish Quarter, or La Juderia, it serves as a poignant reminder of the island's rich Jewish history and culture.

A brief summary to Kahal Shalom Synagogue

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience of the synagogue and museum.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, especially if visiting outside the peak summer season.
  • Take time to explore the Jewish Quarter, La Juderia, and discover its hidden alleyways and historical buildings.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the synagogue, as it is still an active place of worship.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Kahal Shalom Synagogue is located in the Old Town of Rhodes, easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the Grand Master's Palace, walk southeast along the Street of the Knights, then turn left onto Dosiadou street. The synagogue will be on your right, a short distance down the road. The entrance is in a side alley. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport to Rhodes Town, the main bus station is located at Mandraki Harbour. From the bus station, walk south towards the Old Town. Enter the Old Town through one of the main gates and follow signs towards the Jewish Quarter. Once inside the Old Town, follow the walking directions. Bus tickets within Rhodes Town typically cost between €2.50 and €4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Rhodes. Ask the driver to take you to the Kahal Shalom Synagogue in the Old Town. Note that taxis may not be able to drop you directly at the entrance due to the narrow streets. Expect to be dropped off at one of the entrances to the Old Town, from where you can walk to the synagogue. A short taxi ride within Rhodes Town costs approximately €7. Be sure to agree on the fare before getting in the taxi.

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Discover more about Kahal Shalom Synagogue

Kahal Shalom Synagogue, whose full name is “Kahal Kadosh Shalom” meaning Holy Congregation of Peace, is a historical landmark located within the Medieval Town of Rhodes. Constructed in 1577, it holds the distinction of being the oldest synagogue in Greece and the only one still standing on the island. The synagogue is a testament to the vibrant Jewish community that once thrived in Rhodes, particularly after the influx of Sephardic Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition. The synagogue's architecture reflects the traditional Sephardic style, featuring a central bimah (reading platform) for Torah readings. The floor is adorned with a mosaic of black and white stones, a characteristic design found throughout the Old City. In the 1930s, a balcony was added for women's seating, replacing earlier arrangements where women observed services from adjoining rooms. An unusual feature is the presence of two Torah arks on either side of the entrance to the courtyard. Throughout its history, Kahal Shalom has been a central place of worship and community for the Jews of Rhodes. The community prospered under Ottoman rule, but faced persecution during other periods. The island's Jewish population dwindled after the Italian Fascist government introduced anti-Jewish laws in 1938, and the subsequent deportation and murder of over 1,550 Jews during the Nazi occupation in 1944. A plaque near the entrance commemorates the victims of the Holocaust. Today, Kahal Shalom serves as both a place of worship and a museum. Services are held during the summer months and on special occasions, attracting visitors and former residents. The Jewish Museum of Rhodes, housed in the former women's gallery, showcases the history and culture of the island's Jewish community. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring photographs, artifacts, and explanations of Jewish traditions.

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