Sinagoga Beth El, Reform synagogue in Vila Buarque, São Paulo, Brazil
Sinagoga Beth El is a Jewish house of worship in Vila Buarque with an unusual seven-sided structure and Byzantine elements including towers, domes, and colored stained glass windows across its outer facades. The architectural details create a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other religious buildings in the neighborhood.
The building was constructed in 1929 and was the first major synagogue structure in São Paulo, with initial services held in 1932. Its construction was made possible through funding from Jewish families and the leadership of Salomão Klabin.
The synagogue continues to function as a place of worship while housing the Jewish Museum of São Paulo, where visitors can explore exhibitions about local Jewish history and community identity. The space brings together religious practice with the preservation of memories and traditions for people today.
The building has limited visiting hours and is primarily accessible during important Jewish holidays, especially Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Those interested should check in advance, as guided tours and museum programs are regularly offered.
The seven-sided shape of the building was deliberately chosen and refers to two layers of meaning in Jewish tradition: the seven days of the week and the seven branches of the menorah candelabrum. This dual symbolic connection makes the structure a remarkable example of religious architecture.
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