[edit] Pardesi Jewish Synagogue in Cochin
At one end of Jew Street is Jewish Cemetery Road with its Malayalam and Hebrew tombstones. A short walk brings you to Pardesi Synagogue. Once there were 7 synagogues in Fort Cochin in this street, only Pardesi is still open
The synagogue is 400 years old and its interior holds curved brass columns, an intricately carved teak ark, Belgian crystal chandeliers and Torah crowns of solid gold set with gems.
The floor has hand-painted porcelain tiles from Canton, each tile different, depicting a love affair between a mandarin's daughter and a commoner.The 19th century, oil burning glass chandeliers hung from the ceiling were imported from Belgium.
An exclusive gallery for females supported by gilt columns is seen above the main entrance. An elaboirately carved Ark that houses four scrolls of the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament)encased in silver and gold on which sit gold crowns presented by the maharajas of Travancore and Kochi.
The most interesting object are the two copper plates dating back to 4th century with details of privileges granted to the Jewish community during the reign of Bhaskara Ravi Varman in the 10th century.
The 4 dials of the 45 ft clock tower have numerals in Hebrew, Latin, Malayalam and Arabic.
Entry Fee: Rs 2
Open: 10-noon, 3-5pm, closed on Fridays, saturdays and Jewish Holidays
(No video cameras)
[edit] Cochin synagogue implements strict dress code
A new dress code for visitors at the 16th century Cochin Synagogue here, the only functional synagogue in Kerala. The dress code, enforced from April 27, requires men to wear full shirts and trousers and women to sport long skirts well below the knee.
[edit] Sightseeing
- Santa Cruz Basilica
- Princess Street
- St Francis Church
- Fort Cochin Waterfront
- Dutch Cemetary
- Cochin Carnival
- Jew Street
- Pardesi Synagogue
- Mattancherry Palace
- Fort Cochin Accommodation
