Old Yemenite Synagogue, Synagogue in Silwan district, Jerusalem, Israel
The Old Yemenite Synagogue is a prayer house in the Silwan district built with traditional stone and religious architectural elements, reaching approximately 15 meters in height. The building stands at the center of a residential area that was specifically developed for the Yemenite community.
The building was constructed in 1890 for Yemenite Jewish immigrants and ceased operations in 1936 during the Arab revolt. After decades of closure, the synagogue was reopened through restoration efforts in 2015.
The synagogue preserves traditions brought by Yemenite Jews who arrived in Jerusalem starting in 1882, maintaining their distinct prayer practices and architectural features that remain visible today.
The site lies within the residential neighborhood of Kfar Hashiloach surrounded by stone houses from the period of its founding. Visitors should be aware this is a religious space requiring appropriate dress and respect for ongoing prayer services.
The synagogue is part of a rare urban complex of about 45 stone houses built between 1885 and 1891 specifically for the Yemenite community. This residential settlement represents an almost unchanged example from the 19th century of how an immigrant community established itself in Jerusalem.
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