Paradesi Synagogue

The Paradesi Synagogue, also known as the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or Mattancherry Synagogue, stands proudly in Jew Town, Kochi, Kerala. Built in 1568 by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi, it is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. This historic site, located adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace temple, is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Paradesi Jewish community.

About the Paradesi Synagogue

The Paradesi Synagogue, more than 450 years old and the oldest in the Commonwealth, was constructed in 1568 to serve the Jewish community in Kochi. This community, made up of Jews fleeing persecution in Europe, found a haven in Kerala. The term “Paradesi” means “foreigner,” highlighting its establishment by Sephardic Jews from Portugal.

At its peak, the Jewish community in Kochi numbered up to 2000, with the Paradesi Synagogue at the center of their religious and social lives. The synagogue was not only a place of worship but also a venue for significant celebrations, including weddings for couples visiting as tourists. The last major celebration occurred in December 2018, marking the 450th anniversary of the synagogue. For two weeks, Jew Town buzzed with life as over 150 community members from Israel, the United States, Canada, Australia, and England gathered to celebrate. This reunion allowed three generations of families to experience firsthand the history and culture they had only heard and read about.

Architectural Highlights and Historical Significance of Paradesi Synagogue

When visiting the synagogue, the wall on the right as you step into the courtyard is shared with the Mattancherry Palace Hindu temple, a unique testament to the spirit of coexistence in Kerala. During the high holidays, the Torah scrolls are carried around this courtyard in celebration. Inside, the synagogue’s structure follows Sephardic traditions, facing east towards Jerusalem.

Upon entering the main prayer hall, you’ll notice two brass pillars symbolizing those in Solomon’s Temple. The central raised pulpit, or Bimah, is where evening prayers are conducted, and at the other end is the Ark or Hekhal housing the Torah scrolls. The scrolls are encased in silver and topped with gold crowns, some of which were gifts from the Maharaja of Cochin.

The synagogue’s interior is adorned with Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted blue willow-patterned tiles from China. Each of the 1,100 tiles is unique, painted using vegetable dye, showcasing an intricate design. The upper gallery, home to the women’s area, features a second pulpit used for morning services on special occasions, reflecting the synagogue’s tradition of honoring women.

The Clock Tower and Copper Plate

A notable feature of the Paradesi Synagogue is its clock tower, constructed in 1760 by Jewish businessman Ezekiel Rahabi. The 45-foot tower strikes every hour and has four faces with numerals in Latin, Hebrew, and Malayalam, and one side blank. This unique design allowed the Maharaja, local people, Jews, and traders to keep time.

Another significant artifact is the set of Copper Plates given in 1000 CE by the Kerala emperor Cheraman Perumal to a Jewish leader named Joseph Rabban. These plates granted Rabban 72 proprietary rights equivalent to the Nairs, the nobles of Malabar. These artifacts provide a deep insight into the history and culture of the Jewish community in Kochi.

Entry Fee, Best Time to Visit, and Getting to Paradesi Synagogue

The entry fee for the Synagogue is INR 10 per person. Visitors must enter barefoot, respecting the sacredness of the space. Photography is allowed inside however camera stands and flashes are not allowed inside. The Paradesi Synagogue is open to visitors every day except Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays.

The visiting hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM from Sunday to Thursday, and from 10 AM to 2 PM on Friday. The synagogue is closed on Saturdays. The best time to visit the Synagogue is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season, as the heavy rains can make the visit less enjoyable.

Getting to the Paradesi Synagogue is quite straightforward. It is located at Mattanchery and can be accessed by road. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction, located 10 kilometers away and the closest airport is Cochin International Airport, located 41 kilometers away.

Visiting the Paradesi Synagogue offers a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the Jewish community in Kochi, surrounded by the vibrant and diverse backdrop of Jew Town.