Portugese Synagogue

The Portugese Synagogue in Amsterdam has a smaller so callled "Winter synagogue". Because the big building is not heated it is freezing cold in winter. So this smaller one was more comfortable in winter.

The (Portugese) names of the members can be seen on the walls.

This is the Synagogue from the outside.The colossal building dates from 1672 and dominated from the beginning the environment, and still does.It was when it was finished the largest synagogue in the world. It is the only synagogue with Prague that so long fulfills its original function.

It is extremely rare that the current interior largely dates from the construction period and remained including the brass candelabra and holders. The interior has never been adapted to modern times so it has no heating and no electric lights. Nearly 1000 candles are used to illuminate the interior.