Neveh Shalom Synagogue: A Brief History and Guide to Amazing Facts and Things to Do
The Neveh Shalom Synagogue in Suriname is one of the oldest and most important Jewish sites in the Caribbean. It is located in the capital city of Paramaribo, and has been a place of worship and community for the local Jewish community since the 17th century. The synagogue is a testament to the resilience of the Jewish people, and a reminder of the many contributions they have made to the cultural and economic development of Suriname.
History
The Neveh Shalom Synagogue was first established in 1685 by Jewish settlers from the Netherlands. These settlers were part of a wave of Jewish immigration to Suriname, which began in the 1650s and lasted until the early 19th century. The synagogue was built in the traditional Sephardic style, with a central hall and two side wings. In 1732, the synagogue was expanded to include a second floor, and later a third floor was added in 1813.
The synagogue was the heart of the Jewish community in Paramaribo. It was a place of worship, education, and social gathering. The synagogue was also an important political center, as it served as a meeting place for the Jewish community to discuss matters of politics and religion.
In the early 19th century, the synagogue was renovated to include a new façade, a new entrance, and a large dome. The dome was made of Dutch bricks, and was the first of its kind in the Caribbean. The synagogue was also expanded to include a mikvah, a ritual bath, and a library.
In the late 19th century, the synagogue was further renovated and modernized. The interior was painted with bright colors, and a new organ was installed. The synagogue was also equipped with electric lights and a telephone.
Today, the Neveh Shalom Synagogue is a national monument and a symbol of Suriname's rich cultural heritage. It is one of the oldest Jewish sites in the Caribbean and a reminder of the vibrant Jewish community that once existed in the country.
Amazing Facts
• The Neveh Shalom Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the Caribbean, and one of the oldest in the Americas.
• The synagogue is the only surviving example of a Sephardic synagogue in the Caribbean.
• The synagogue was built in the traditional Sephardic style, with a central hall and two side wings.
• The synagogue was renovated and modernized in the late 19th century, and was equipped with electric lights and a telephone.
• The synagogue is a national monument and a symbol of Suriname's rich cultural heritage.
Things to Do
• Visit the Neveh Shalom Synagogue and explore its rich history and architecture.
• Attend a service at the synagogue to experience the traditional Jewish prayers and rituals.
• Visit the nearby Jewish museum to learn more about the history of the Jewish community in Suriname.
• Visit the Jewish cemetery to pay your respects to the departed members of the community.
• Visit the nearby Jewish cultural center to learn more about the culture and traditions of the Jewish people.
• Take a guided tour of the synagogue and learn about its history and architecture.
• Attend a lecture or event at the synagogue to learn more about Jewish history and culture.
• Enjoy a meal at one of the nearby Jewish restaurants to sample the local cuisine.