Jewish Synagogue
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Jewish Synagogue, Kochi Overview
Also known as Paradesi Synagogue or Mattancherry Synagogue, Cochin Jewish Synagogue is the oldest active synagogue, not just in Kochi but in the Commonwealth of Nations. Located in the Jew Town area of Kochi, the synagogue was constructed in 1567 and is one of the seven synagogues of the Malabar Yehudan or Yehudan Mappila.
The synagogue shares its walls with the Mattancherry Palace and was built by Spanish- speaking Jews; therefore, it is also known as ‘Paradesi’ meaning ‘foreigners’. Boasting of rare antiques including beautiful chandeliers, clock tower, brass railed pulpit, Chinese hand-painted tiles etc. and striking architecture, the synagogue has four buildings of its own. In 1662, the synagogue was ruined by the Portuguese but was later renovated by the Dutch after 2 years.
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History of Jewish Synagogue
- White Jews or the Paradesi Jews- descendents from Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands
- Black Jews or the Malabari Jews- the original Jew settlers of Kochi. They were admitted inside the synagogue but weren’t allowed full membership.
- Meshuchrarim, who were a group of freed slaves. They were only allowed to sit on the floor inside the synagogue or they could only sit on the stairs outside.
Architecture of Jewish Synagogue
With beautiful pillars holding up the starry roof, there is also a pulpit at the centre with brass nails. A separate porch has been built for women with gorgeous protruding golden columns and a teak arc. At the front, there are four scrolls of the Torah encased in silver and gold. Other attractions include 4th century copper plates with inscriptions and two gold crowns of olden day kings.
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