Bikur Holim Synagogue belongs to the Kemeraltı group of historic synagogues. Its name means “visiting the sick”, a reminder of the welfare functions that often sat close to religious life.
- Area: Kemeraltı (First Juderia)
- Meaning: “visiting the sick”
- Built: donated 1724; rebuilt 1800
- Status: Historic; notable painted interior
History
The synagogue began with a 1724 donation by Salomon de Ciaves, a Dutch Jew of Portuguese origin who gave one of his large courtyard houses to the community and provided the religious books and objects for it. He also endowed neighbouring houses and shops to give the institution an income.
The name Bikur Holim is usually linked to a period when the basement served as a hospital during outbreaks of plague or cholera. Older accounts suggest the same basement may once have held the community prison. The synagogue was destroyed by fire in 1772 and rebuilt in 1800 by Manuel de Ciaves, a member of the same family.
What to notice
The main prayer hall follows a central plan, with a prominent Tevah, a ceiling decorated with floral and fruit patterns, and columns painted in green and yellow. It is one of the most striking historic interiors in Izmir.
Visiting
Please read Visit before making any plans. Access to historic synagogues may require prior permission.
