Portuguese Synagogue

From the second half of the 17th century Amsterdam Jews were allowed to build synagogues that were visible from the street. That decision changed the look and feel of the whole city! Walk the candlelit halls of the Portuguese Synagogue (also called the ), admire the intricate wooden carvings, and feel the sandy floor beneath your feet. Your audio guide will fill you in on the context as you walk.The beautifully preserved interior of the Portuguese Synagogue is a wonder in itself. Aside from the architecture and wooden floors, there's still no modern heating or lighting, so to enter this building is to walk through a magical candlelit wonderland and go back to the Golden Age.In the 17th century, Dutch trade, plus science, military, and art were some of the most celebrated in the world - which is why it was known as the Golden Age. Until the Holocaust, Jews accounted for 10% of Amsterdam's population, many of whom found this city to be a refuge from persecution in Spain and Portugal.In its time, the Portuguese Synagogue was one of the biggest buildings in Amsterdam. Today it's one of only five synagogues in the world to have a sand floor (used to absorb dust, moisture and sound). This ticket includes entry to the adjacent Jewish Historical Museum, and the nearby Hollandsche Schouwburg (National Holocaust Memorial), so you can get well and truly educated on all things Jewish.