The Portuguese Synagogue is the functioning house of prayer of the Portuguese Jewish Community of Amsterdam. On days when no services are held, this magnificent esnoga and the hidden treasure chambers are open to visitors. Enjoy the serene tranquillity of the courtyard, and imagine yourself in a bygone age. It’s easy to picture families meeting here on a Saturday morning for the Shabbat service. What makes this building so remarkable is that its interior has remained completely intact. No heating or electricity has been installed and it’s lit by the hundreds of candles you see all around. At night, by candlelight, the atmosphere is wonderful. Would you like to see? Then come to one of the candlelit concerts we hold from time to time. The world’s oldest functioning Jewish library is also here: Ets Haim Livraria Montezinos, which is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The Portuguese Synagogue is accessible for wheelchairs.
