Synagogue, Neoclassical synagogue in Soragna, Italy
The Synagogue in Soragna is a neoclassical building with a large prayer hall on the first floor, whose ceiling is decorated with frescoes by Giuseppe Levi and features trabeated pilasters. The interior was designed with careful attention to religious ceremony and now houses artistic elements from different periods.
The building originated after the Meli Lupi marquises granted Jews permission in 1584 to purchase land for a cemetery and this site. This decision allowed the Jewish community to establish a permanent place in Soragna and maintain their religious life for centuries to come.
The synagogue's layout reflects how the local Jewish community shaped its prayer life, with the tevah positioned before the aron and bench seating arranged to support communal worship. This configuration shows how religious practice was adapted to this specific space over centuries.
The building is now part of the Jewish Museum Fausto Levi and displays religious artifacts, prayer texts, and Scrolls of the Law with silver ornaments. Visitors should note that entering an active synagogue requires respect for religious customs and some areas may have restricted access.
The women's gallery houses a collection of ketubbot, traditional Jewish marriage contracts that provide insight into the community's family stories. These handwritten documents with their artistic decorations tell personal stories of commitment and show the artistic skill that went into religious ceremonies.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
