Nidhe Israel Synagogue
Synagogue Ln, Bridgetown, Barbados
The Nidhe Israel Synagogue is part of the Barbados Synagogue Historic District. Dating back to 1654, the synagogue was initially a place of worship for Sephardic Jews who came to Barbados from Brazil. After falling into disrepair, the building was restored in three phases, which were completed in 2017. The site is now open to the public for tours of the synagogue, mikvah (ritual bath), museum, and cemetery.
The basics
Many walking and history tours of Bridgetown include a stop at the Nidhe Israel Synagogue and cemetery, but few include a visit inside the buildings. If you want to see the synagogue, mikvah, and museum, you can return on your own and purchase a ticket that allows access to the entire site. The cemetery is believed to be the oldest Jewish graveyard in the Western Hemisphere, with gravestones dating back to 1658.
Things to know before you go
There is a fee if you wish to visit the Barbados Synagogue Historic District.
The buildings are not open on the weekends.
There is a café on-site.
The synagogue and social hall are available to rent for events.
How to get there
From Independence Square, walk across the Chamberlain Bridge and then follow High Street to James Street, where the synagogue is located. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Independence Square and 25 minutes from the cruise port. If you’re driving, there’s a small parking lot on-site, with an entrance on James Street.
When to get there
The Barbados Synagogue Historic District is open from morning to mid-afternoon, Monday through Friday. Only the café is open on the weekends.
Other historical sites nearby
Walking tours of Bridgetown often start at Independence Square, where you can walk across the Chamberlain Bridge and stop at National Heroes Square to see the monuments to influential Bajan citizens. Those looking to visit more religious sites should stop by St. Michael's Cathedral, which was consecrated in 1665 and is still in use today.
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