Synagogue of Siena

Siena’s Jewish Temple

NEOCLASSICISM AND ROCOCO

The Synagogue of Siena, currently the product of a major project involving the extension and renovation of its original premises by Florentine architect Giuseppe del Rosso, first opened its doors in May 1786. Situated in Vicolo delle Scotte, it is used by the local Jewish community for religious services to this day.
Its simple façade and, in total contrast, its elegant and richly adorned interior are typical features of synagogues built before the Emancipation. Devoid of all distinguishing features on the outside, they are invariably sumptuously decorated on the inside.
The interior of the Synagogue, in the Neoclassical style with Rococo elements, hosts rows of benches down the sides, while the lectern in the centre, made in 1756, is enriched with nine 18th century ten-armed candelabra. On the wall behind the podium, three arches house windows in the Neoclassical style.
The mechitza, a balcony enclosed by a wooden latticework grate, overlooks the Torah Ark adorned with marble columns and capped by a curvilinear pediment,
The Tables of the Law in white and blue-painted stucco grace the centre of the ceiling.
The Synagogue hosts items of immense value, including an Elijah’s Chair, or circumcision chair, in carved and inlaid wood donated by Rabbi Nissim in 1860.

opening Hours

1 November – 31 March: Monday – Friday: 10.30 am – 3.00 pm and Sunday: 10.00 am – 1.30 pm and 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm

1 April – 31 October: Sunday – Thursday: 10.30 am – 1.30 pm and 2 pm – 6 pm and Friday: 10.30 am – 3.30 pm

Last entrance 30 minutes before the closing time


The Synagogue and Museum are closed to visitors on Saturdays and Jewish holidays

Tickets

Full price: 4,00 euro

Concessions: 3 euro

Children ages 6 to 14; students* ages 15 to 25; journalists*; groups of more than 20 people; holders of tickets to the Florence Jewish Synagogue and Museum*.
Proof of entitlement must be provided

Free of charge

Accompanying teachers (2 free admissions every 15 students); group leaders (every 20 people); carers accompanying handicapped visitors; children up to age 6.

Groups of adults: 3 euro

(minimum 20 people)

School groups:
guided tour: 3.00 euro

(minimum 18 students)

Educational workshop: 4.50 euro

(minimum 15 students)

BUY YOUR TICKET ON LINE

Not to be missed

A TOUR OF THE MUSEUM

Your visit to the Temple is completed by a tour of the museum with texts, images and documents covering the history of Siena’s Jewish community over the past 700 years.

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