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Portuguese Synagogue

An insight into Jewish history and the Netherlands in the 17th century

Start time 10:00
Duration 7h
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Audio guide

English, Dutch, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish
Live guide

English, German, French, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish
Max group size 15

Included

Entrance to the Portuguese Synagogue + Audioguide
Entrance to Jewish Historical Museum + Audioguide
Map for a tour around the Jewish Neighborhood

From the second half of the 17th century Amsterdam, Jews were permitted to build synagogues that were visible from the street. That decision changed the look and feel of the whole city! Walk the candlelit halls of the Portuguese Synagogue (also called the Esnoga), admire the intricate wooden carvings, and feel the sandy floor beneath your feet. Your audio guide will fill you in on the context as you walk.

The beautifully preserved interior of the Portuguese Synagogue is a wonder in itself. Aside from the architecture and wooden floors, there's still no modern heating or lighting.

In the 17th century, Dutch trade, plus science, military, and art were some of the most celebrated in the world. Until the Holocaust, Jews accounted for 10% of Amsterdam's population, many of whom found this city to be a refuge from persecution in Spain and Portugal.

In its time, the Portuguese Synagogue was one of the biggest buildings in Amsterdam. Today it's one of only five synagogues in the world to have a sand floor (used to absorb dust, moisture and sound).

These Portuguese Synagogue tickets include entry to the adjacent Jewish Historical Museum, so you can learn even more about Amsterdam's Jewish community.

Jewish Cultural Quarter

Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL, Amsterdam

Wheelchair accessible
Provider: Jewish Cultural Quarter

Registered address: Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL, Amsterdam, NL

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