One of the oldest synagogues in the western hemisphere. A reminder that Charlotte Amalie is so much more than cruise ships and jewelry stores. It was a lively multicultural port city.
This is a historical site which will be of interest to all visitors to Charlotte Amalie whether you are Jewish or not. It is the second oldest Synagogue in the Western Hemisphere (after Curacao) founded over 300 years ago.Still in use by the over 70 Jewish families living in St Thomas, it is beautifully kept and a calm oasis just a short walk up from the Main town street. There is usually one member of the community to show you around and give some personal explanations and there is additionally a small museum at the rear of the Synagogue which houses a well set out history of Jewish settlement in St Thomas.Ask for the Holy Ark to be opened for you and see the absolutely beautiful Torah Scrolls. Three of these scrolls date back over 200 years and one was written in 1771. There is also a scroll recovered from Czechoslovakia after the 2nd world war still bearing its Nazi reference number.If your Cruise ship docks in Charlotte Amalie, it will be worth your time to divert from your shopping to walk up the short street to see this interesting attraction.Entrance is free but a small donation was appreciated. There is an adjoining shop which sells some interesting gift items, some of which are made on the island.
This is the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, and it was well worth the visit. The floor is sand, and the warmth and charm of the sanctuary are immediately apparent. There historical information is quite interesting. I highly recommend taking the time to visit and learn and the history of the Jews in St. Thomas.
Our whole visit took less than 30 minutes. It took longer for us to find the place (there is a VERY steep road) than our actual visit. Very small gift shop with pricey souvenirs. Lots of nooks and crannies with steps that may not be suitable for visitors who use canes or who have difficulty walking. No guide was available although passengers from a cruise ship and other tourists stopped by. You are on your own to walk through the synagogue and read the displays.
This is one of the oldest synagogues in the western hemisphere , something to be seen. It has a very unusual characteristics, it has a sand floor !
I learned so much from Diane about the history of the Jewish religion in the Carribean. The walk up the hill is intimidating but well worth it. The Synagoue is interesting with the sand floor but hearing Diane tell you about the sand floor and everything that has happened is a must if you have an extra hour on the island.
it is the oldest synagogue in Usa, i believe, floor covered in sand ,just like it was one time, like it should be, lot of thing change , but still it is suggested to visit.
This synagogue was open which is a rarity in these strange political times we live in. The symbolic sand on the floor was most remarkable, the view outside is wonderful. Just walking to the synagogue is Worth a visit in itself. The hillside is more like a norwegian walk in Bergen, but the heat is different!
The synagogue and all of its exhibits really told the history of the Jewish community in St. Thomas. But the best part was the talk by the cantor that really brought the history to life-not to be missed. The walk up Synagogue hill is worth it!
If your into History, be sure to stop here. Its an up-hill walk to get here, but its down hill when leaving. It made me feel Peaceful and relaxed. Good place to set and think about your life.