No it's not a disparaging way to describe a part of town, but a very historical and important place of worship and commerce in Cochin. Jews are Everywhere..... thanks to the diaspora. I was not surprised as I had been wanting to visit Jew Town for many many years,and finally when I Knew the Synagogue would be OPEN I walked down to the narrow streets, with their spices and of course....antique centers newly created for the tourists.
Unfortunately, one is not allowed to take photos inside of the synagogue. The facade belies an ornate and beautiful interior.
Built in 1568(!), the Pardesi Synagogue was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 and rebuilt later in 1664 when the Dutch took Kochi.
The interior is really a beautiful place to Just Be. I sat in the pantina worn wooden benches and just took it all in. The cool and truly unique blue and white Chinese tiles (no two alike) ground this tall building, with many crystal chandeliers hanging along with the ornate "eternal light". (the tiles were originally ordered by a raja.... but that's another story.) There are two ornately carved pulpits . One for the ark and the other for prayer service.
I purchased a small book about the synagogue if anyone is interested in reading about it.
The houses are in the simple Dutch style, contiguous and connected, allowing people to observe the Sabbath without leaving their homes. It was/is a safe haven for Jews for centuries for them to live and work.
travelin' woman
Built in 1568(!), the Pardesi Synagogue was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 and rebuilt later in 1664 when the Dutch took Kochi.
The interior is really a beautiful place to Just Be. I sat in the pantina worn wooden benches and just took it all in. The cool and truly unique blue and white Chinese tiles (no two alike) ground this tall building, with many crystal chandeliers hanging along with the ornate "eternal light". (the tiles were originally ordered by a raja.... but that's another story.) There are two ornately carved pulpits . One for the ark and the other for prayer service.
I purchased a small book about the synagogue if anyone is interested in reading about it.
 |
| the gates outside of the synagogue |
 |
| the part of town was given by the Raja of Cochin who also protected the Jews there |
 |
| part of the facade of the synagogue |
 |
| the streets of Jew Town- spices galore- the Jews were the traders and merchants of the sea with their own boats. |
The houses are in the simple Dutch style, contiguous and connected, allowing people to observe the Sabbath without leaving their homes. It was/is a safe haven for Jews for centuries for them to live and work.
travelin' woman
No comments:
Post a Comment