Paradesi Synagogue

    Situated in Kochi, Kerala's Jew Town district, the Paradesi Synagogue is a unique example of the rich Jewish tradition of India. Having been founded in 1568, this synagogue is the oldest continuously operating one in the Commonwealth of Nations and a significant cultural and historical icon in Kochi. Translating to "foreigners," the term "Paradesi" honours the Spanish-speaking Jews who founded the synagogue and fled persecution in Europe to seek safety in India. For ages, the once-thriving Malabar Yehudan (Cochin Jewish) population has used it as a place of prayer.

The Paradesi Synagogue is well known for its magnificent interior design and architecture. The building's distinctive look is the result of the fusion of colonial influences with native Kerala architecture. The floor of the synagogue is its most remarkable feature; it is covered in individually hand-painted Chinese porcelain tiles in shades of blue and white. The brass pulpit and the Belgian glass chandeliers accentuate the opulence even further. The synagogue is filled with historical relics, such as the magnificent Torah crowns made of gold and silver in the eighteenth century, which were given as gifts by different patrons, and a pulpit with brass rails. The synagogue's ancient ambience is further enhanced by a Hebrew clock tower that dates back to 1760. The collection of ancient copper plates with Hebrew inscriptions from the fourth century is extremely valuable historically since it documents the privileges accorded to the Jewish people.

More than just a work of architecture, Kochi's Paradesi Synagogue is a living example of the Jewish community's continuing history in India. Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a must-see for everyone interested in Kochi's rich cultural diversity. The Paradesi Synagogue, a symbol of spirituality, history, and culture, provides a rare window into an intriguing but little-known aspect of India's rich past.