Synagogue of Siena

Designed by Giuseppe del Rosso in the Neoclassical style with extensive Rococo features, the synagogue was completed in May 1786. The present synagogue was erected in 1786 on the site of the older synagogue. Because Jews in that era were prohibited from building houses of worship identifiable from the street, the stone facade of the four-story building is plain, resembling neighboring residential buildings. The sanctuary is located on the first floor (one flight up from street level). It has an elaborate Neoclassical interior, with a lofty Baroque Revival ceiling featuring a large crowned tablet of the Ten Commandments enthroned in clouds of glory. Two tiers of balconies on the building's third and fourth stories have views into the room through elaborate baroque grills. Furniture is arranged in the historic style of the Italian Jewish community, with the bimah in the center of the room. The Torah Ark is a classical marble cabinet with marble pillars and entablature towering almost the height of the room This historic congregation is Orthodox. The synagogue, still used today for religious services by the local Jewish community, houses ancient Torah scrolls, silver furnishings and ritual vestments of great value, which are displayed in the room adjacent to the prayer hall. The synagogue is open to visitors. Hours: November 1 – March 31 Monday-Friday: 10.30 AM – 3 PM Sunday: 10 AM – 1.30 PM | 2 PM – 6 PM April 1 – October 31 Sunday-Thursday: 10 AM – 1.30 PM | 2 PM – 6 PM Friday: 10.30 AM – 3.30 PM Closed on Saturday and for Jewish celebrations.

www.jewishsiena.it