Signora Giveret Synagogue

Signora Giveret Synagogue

The building, which burned many times in the seventeenth century, was destroyed in the fire of 1841, and was rebuilt with the contributions of Moiz Bengiat Yerushalmi.

It can clearly be seen from the floor layout of the synagogue that it was transformed from central plan to dual Tevah (prayer reading platform) form. The Ehal (cabinet where the Torah scrolls are stored) with its doors on which lines from the Torah are written, fits the triple composition unique to Izmir.

According to a story told, this synagogue was built with the donations of a Portuguese originned lady named Donna Gracia Nassi (1510-1569).

However, current research has revealed that it was donated to the Izmir Jewish Community to be used as a synagogue by a lady named Lea, who decided to immigrate to the 'holy lands' from Izmir in 1664.