The Paradesi Synagogue is an old Jewish temple in Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala. It’s the oldest one still in use in the Commonwealth countries. The synagogue shows how different cultures have come together in India for a long time. In this blog, we’ll explore the history, architecture, and significance of the Paradesi Synagogue.
A Brief History of the Paradesi Synagogue
Jewish residents of Kochi built the Paradesi Synagogue in 1568. The word “Paradesi” means “foreigner” in some Indian languages. It was named after the “Paradesi” Jews who came from Spain and Portugal.
The Jewish people in Kochi have lived there for more than a thousand years. They lived peacefully with the local people and traded with them. The synagogue’s proximity to Mattancherry Palace demonstrates the Jewish community’s closeness to the local rulers.
The Paradesi Synagogue has witnessed many historical events, including the arrival of European colonial powers and a period when the Jewish population in Kochi declined. Despite these challenges, the synagogue continues to be a valuable part of Kochi’s cultural heritage.
Architectural Features of the Paradesi Synagogue
The Paradesi Synagogue is known for its special style. It mixes Jewish and Kerala styles together. Here are some cool things about the synagogue:
The Clock Tower
One of the coolest things about the Paradesi Synagogue is its clock tower. Built in 1760, the clock tower boasts a large clock on each of its four sides. It is visible from a long distance. Each clock shows the time in a different language: Hebrew, Roman, Malayalam, and Arabic. This shows how many different cultures are in Kochi.
The Entrance and Prayer Hall
You enter the synagogue through a courtyard with flowers and benches. It’s a peaceful place. The main prayer hall is large, with high ceilings and lots of windows. It’s a light and airy space.
Hand-painted floor tiles
Beautiful hand-painted tiles cover the floor of the synagogue. Long ago, they imported these blue and white flower-patterned tiles from China. The cool tiles make the prayer hall feel peaceful.
Belgian Chandeliers
A fancy light fixture from Belgium hangs from the ceiling. The light fixtures, crafted from glass, feature glittering designs. They make the synagogue look even more beautiful.
The Torah Ark
At the back of the prayer hall is a special cabinet called the Torah Ark. It holds the Torah scrolls, which are essential Jewish books. The Ark is made of wood and is decorated with gold and silver.
The Balcony
Above the prayer hall, there is a balcony where the women used to sit during services. In the past, Jewish people followed this custom. The balcony has a beautiful view of the whole prayer hall.
The Pulpit (Bimah)
The Bimah is a special platform in the middle of the prayer hall. It’s where the rabbi stands to read the Torah, which is a very important Jewish book. The Bimah is made of wood and is decorated to show how important the Torah is.
The Significance of the Paradesi Synagogue
The Paradesi Synagogue is more than just a religious place. It shows that Jewish people have lived in India for a very long time. It also reminds us how different religions can live together peacefully in Kerala.
For the Jewish people in Kochi, the synagogue has been a place to worship and socialize. Despite the decline in Jewish population in Kochi, the synagogue continues to serve as a prominent landmark.
The synagogue is important for remembering the history and traditions of the Cochin Jews. Visitors can see old things like Torah scrolls, gold crowns, and copper plates that were given to the Jewish people by local rulers.
Visiting the Paradesi Synagogue
The Paradesi Synagogue is in Jew Town, Mattancherry. This is a busy place with antique shops, spice markets, and other interesting things. Here are some tips for visiting the synagogue:
- The synagogue is open from Sunday to Thursday. It’s closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays. Check the opening hours before you go.
- The synagogue is a religious place, so visitors should dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees.
- You can’t take pictures inside the synagogue. But you can take pictures outside and around the area.
- You can also visit other places nearby, like the Mattancherry Palace, the Jew Street Market, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum.
Conclusion
The Paradesi Synagogue is more than just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the cultural and religious diversity of Kochi. Visiting the synagogue provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the Jewish community in Kerala and appreciate the architectural beauty of this centuries-old place of worship.
If you like history, exploring cultures, or traveling, the Paradesi Synagogue is a must-visit. It will help you understand Kochi’s amazing heritage even better.
