Snogeiros – People of the Snoge

Behind the monumental walls of the Portuguese Synagogue – affectionately known as the Snoge – lies not a static past, but a living community that gathers, celebrates, learns, mourns, and supports one another. For more than three centuries, in the heart of Amsterdam. 

Open 

On the occasion of the 350th anniversary of the Portuguese Synagogue, the community invites you to discover the faces, stories, and traditions of the people who shape this community today. Photographer Marte Visser was granted exceptional access to daily life within the community. With this exhibition, the Portuguese Jewish Community opens its doors. Step inside, look, meet, and ask questions. Because, those who ask questions, build bridges. 

About Marte Visser 

In Visser’s work (1977), the human being takes center stage. With a cinematic eye, she captures moments of intimacy, ritual, and connection, in which light plays a key role. Her photography is characterized by a focus on subtle gestures and small interactions that reveal something essential about people and how they feel.

Rembrandt 

A remarkable historical connection exists between the Portuguese Jewish Community and the renowned painter Rembrandt van Rijn, who lived in this neighborhood, portrayed its people, and maintained friendships here. Marte Visser greatly admires his use of light and the composition of his group portraits. The fact that she has now been able to document life within the very same community creates a special link between past and present. 

Snogeiros – People of the Snoge will be on view at the Portuguese Synagogue from July 10 through November 8. The exhibition will not be on display on September 13 and from September 17 to 22 due to the High Holidays.