Four Sephardic Synagogues, Jerusalem

This cluster of small interconnected synagogues, once the spiritual hub of Jerusalem’s Sephardic community dating back to the 17th century, has been recently restored to its former glory. The exquisite furniture and intricate designs, sourced from similar synagogues—including those in Italy whose congregations had migrated to Israel— stand as a testament to a bygone era.

Constructed to comply with Ottoman regulations dictating that non-Muslim prayer houses couldn't surpass neighboring mosques in height, these synagogues ingeniously positioned their ground floors below street level. During Israel's War of Independence, they provided sanctuary to the Jews of the Old City's Jewish Quarter.

However, when the Old City fell to the Jordanian Legion, the synagogues were destroyed and the area repurposed as livestock stalls. Following the Six-Day War in 1967, concerted efforts by Jewish organizations worldwide and the Israeli government led to their restoration, with poignant images documenting their transformation from ruin to resurrection.

For those intrigued by synagogues and Sephardic Judaism, this is an essential visit. The rich history and tranquil ambiance, coupled with minimal tourist crowds, make it a truly special place on the outskirts of the Jewish Quarter.