Altar of the Twelve Gods

Welcome to the Kahal Shalom Synagogue, the oldest functioning Jewish house of worship in Greece. We are in the heart of the medieval city of Rhodes, specifically in the 'Juderia,' the historic Jewish quarter. …

Our visit begins in the beautiful 'chotsh,' or courtyard, of the synagogue. One of the first things you will notice under your feet is the intricate 'chochlakia' floor—a traditional Rhodian mosaic made of black and white sea…

Stepping inside the main sanctuary, the atmosphere changes instantly. The interior of Kahal Shalom is exceptionally ornate and reflects a unique Sephardic layout. …

The focal point of the sanctuary is the Aron Kodesh, the Holy Ark, which houses the Torah scrolls. In Kahal Shalom, the Ark is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, often featuring intricate wood carvings and draped in rich,…

In keeping with the traditions of the time, Kahal Shalom features a separate gallery for women. Located on the upper level, overlooking the main sanctuary, this space allowed women to participate in the services while maintaining…

We now come to the most somber part of our visit: the memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. In the courtyard and within the synagogue, you will find plaques and monuments dedicated to the sixteen hundred Jews of Rhodes and…

Adjacent to the sanctuary, the Jewish Museum of Rhodes provides a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the community. Established by dedicated individuals, including Haim Cohen-Saban, who worked tirelessly to restore…

As we conclude our exploration of the synagogue's specific areas, we must acknowledge the efforts that allow us to stand here today. For years after the war, the Kahal Shalom was in a state of disrepair, a silent ruin in a city…

As we leave the Kahal Shalom Synagogue and step back into the streets of the Rhodian Juderia, take one last look at the stone walls that have stood since 1577. We have walked through the history of a community that found a home…