Jews were a large group in Izmir, growing with the fortunes of the city as a major port for Turkey. Forty thousand strong by the 19th century. Wars, expulsions, and emigration to Israel have left the community a threadbare remnant. Today, about 2,400 Jews live in Izmir.
One amazing feature left behind is a collection of historic synagogues. Tours are offered, visiting about eight places, all worth seeing for the rich patina and variety of styles.
Entrance to the Algazi synagogue. The temples are nestled in the old part of the city, often hidden behind nondescript walls, down a gated alley.
Wow. The interior of the Algazi synagogue. A fancy cover for the religious scroll, a torah.
Some synagogues are in a ruined state. The "interior" of the Hevra synagogue.
The ark, storage area of the torah, at the Hevra synagogue. TLC needed. Ancient up-cycling. An old Roman rock, now embedded in a synagogue exterior wall.
A nice round, wood bima, orator's platform at the Eliezer Hillel Behor Menuah, now a small museum.
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