This imposing structure was built in 1568 when the Jews settled
in Mattancherry, after their expulsion from the Rahabi. They built a clock
tower and paved the floor of the synagogue with 18th century hand
painted willow pattern tiles brought from China. Its most important relics
are the impressive copper plates recording King Bhaskara Ravi Varma's
4th century decree that guaranteed the Jewish settlers domain over Cranganore
(Kodungalore) as well as the Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs, great
scrolls of the Old Testament etc. The Synagogue itself is elaborately
decorated with crystal chandeliers and carved wood with blue and white
ceramic tiles. Located in Jew town, Mattancherry, the synagogue is open
from 10 am to 12 noon; 3 pm to 5pm and closed on Saturdays and Jewish
holidays. |