Thursday 28 February 2013

Old Cochin Paradesi Synagogue

When James went to Cochin last winter, he didn't get to take photos inside the city's long-surviving Jewish synagogue. On a separate trip, Sarah was fortunate to be allowed to snap a few pictures inside the little building that's on the tourist trail of Cochin.

The area's Jewish community is too small these days for regular services, but the synagogue, built in 1568, is still lovingly maintained.

The alley that leads to the synagogue. The actual temple is not the building at the end of the lane, but through the door on the left.


Inside the lovely, little synagogue, a mix of elements from many architectural styles.


Lighting is eclectic, a collection from various time periods, including chandeliers from Belgium. The collection of old torahs in the temple's ark.

The 18th century Chinese floor tiles are great, in the classic Asian porcelain style featuring nature scenes.


Gravestones dot the courtyard that surrounds the synagogue. A tablet from another Cochin synagogue, now gone, is embedded in the wall of this temple.

1 comment:

  1. I've been there! Mark wanted to pay homage to Salman Rushdie

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