From the popular “They Might Be Giants” song you probably already know that Istanbul was once called Constantinople. But did you know that this city may justly be called the Jewish cultural center of the country of Turkey?

According to the Jewish Virtual Library, approximately 26,000 Jews currently live in Turkey, with the vast majority of them residing in Istanbul. Sephardic Jews make up approximately 96% of Turkey’s Jewish population, while the rest are primarily Ashkenazic. In the year 1992, the Jewish community of Istanbul celebrated 500 years of its existence.

The Jewish Community has existed in Turkey since the 4th century B.C. At the time, the area was called Asia Minor by the Romans.

In more modern times, as in the late 1930s and 1940s, Turkey became home to many Jews fleeing Nazi persecution. Ataturk, the renowned father of the Republic of Turkey, invited many Jewish professors who were threatened by Nazi cruelty to seek refuge in Turkey.

Because of its rich history, Istanbul is a wonderful place in which to explore significant Jewish landmarks. One area that is definitely worth a visit, and was once the home to many Jewish residents, is called Golden Horn.

Golden Horn was an important trading point and popular shoreline residential area during the Byzantine period. Now it is filled with lovely parks, gardens, and promenades. The area received its name from the picturesque golden glow that fills it during sunset.

The only remaining open synagogue in the area is called Maalem Synagogue. It was built on the northern slopes of the Golden Horn in 1931 by the “Comunita Israelitico – Italiana di Istanbul.” Its construction commenced when the previously operational synagogue, which had been standing since the 1800’s, was torn down.

Today there are a total of 16 synagogues in Istanbul, all of which are Sephardi except for one. Some additional ones that you may enjoy visiting are:

Ahrida Synagogue- Another synagogue that is located in Golden Horn, Ahrida is said to be the most famous of Istanbul’s old synagogues. The first building was built some time in the 1400s, but was then destroyed by a fire in the 1600s. In 1694, the synagogue was re-built in the Ottoman Baroque style that was popular at the time, reflecting what is called the “Tulip Period.”

Later restorations in 1990 and 1991 were completed, during which fine details from centuries past were restored. Now, the fascinating architecture is reflective of Ahrida’s extensive history. One feature that is particularly unique is its Teva, which is shaped like the prow of a ship and said to symbolize Noah’s Ark.

You can visit this beautiful and historic synagogue, but you must first receive permission from the Chief Rabbinate of Turkey at least 24 hours in advance. You can do this by email at info@musevicemaati.com

Neve Shalom Synagogue- Built in 1951, this is the largest synagogue in Istanbul. It is open to the public for morning visits on weekdays and Shabbat prayers every Saturday morning. Its name means “Oasis of Peace.” The Neve Shalom Synagogue has suffered, but more importantly triumphantly survived, three terrorist attacks: the first in 1986, the second in 1992, and the last in 2003. It is located in the Galata district of Istanbul.

Bet Israel Synagogue – Both this synagogue and Neve Shalom are supported and governed by the Neve Shalom Foundation. Bet Israel is located in Sisli, and was initially built in the 1920s, then enlarged in the 1950s to accommodate a growing Jewish population. Bet Israel can be visited, but it is necessary to first make an appointment with the Neve Shalom foundation.

There are many other grand, historic synagogues to explore! For a complete list, you can visit http://jewish-europe.net/turkey/en/synagogue.htm

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