Amsterdam in the Golden Age: Portuguese Synagogue

Travel back to the days of Amsterdam’s "Golden Age" on an audio tour of the Portuguese Synagogue. Learn about a period of prosperity that would have been unimaginable without the contributions of the Jewish community.

Erected in the heart of Amsterdam in 1675, the Portuguese Synagogue was the largest synagogue in the world at the time. While still used as a house of worship, the synagogue is also open to the public and hosts frequent concerts. Gaze in awe at the authentic interior of large stone pillars and white plaster walls. Marvel at the dark furniture bathed in the abundant light of 72 windows. Since its consecration, the synagogue has had no electric light or heating and is illuminated by the artificial light of 1,000 candles in its brass chandeliers. The sand on the wood floor protects it from dirt.

Other buildings in the complex include the treasure chambers, where you can admire unique ceremonial objects of silver, gold, silk and brocade. You can also see the oldest functioning Jewish library in the world at Ets Haim Livraria Montezinos (included by UNESCO in the Memory of the World Register).

Access other attractions in the Jewish Cultural Quarter, including the Jewish Historical Museum, with its interesting Children's Museum. See the National Holocaust Memorial and National Holocaust Museum. Learn more about Jewish culture, history and traditions. You can visit all 5 locations with your ticket, which is valid for 1 month.