Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue, Orthodox synagogue in Alexandria, Egypt
Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue is a Jewish house of worship on Nabi Daniel Street in Alexandria, Egypt. The interior features tall ceilings held up by pink marble columns, and the building follows an eclectic architectural style mixing several influences.
A first building on this site dated to 1354 but was destroyed in 1798 during the French invasion of Egypt. The current structure was built from 1836 onward with support from the Muhammad Ali Dynasty.
The name of the synagogue honors the Prophet Elijah, who holds a special place in Jewish tradition. Inside, a dedicated chamber contains the Chair of Elijah, used for circumcision ceremonies and still visible to visitors today.
Visitors are required to bring a passport to enter the building. The synagogue reopened to the public in January 2020 after a major restoration, so it is now in good condition for a visit.
The seats reserved for male worshippers are fitted with brass nameplates engraved with names and titles, and many of these are still attached to the benches today. Walking through the hall, you can read the names of people who attended services here generations ago.
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