Sinagoga e Museo Ebraico di Siena

Siena's synagogue and Jewish Museum preserve the history of a Jewish community whose presence in the city spans many centuries.

Why it matters

The synagogue is a surviving centre of Jewish life in a quarter reshaped by civic policy and redevelopment. Siena instituted a ghetto in 1571 under Cosimo I de' Medici; it remained in use until 1859. The synagogue, Fonte del Ghetto and Jewish cemetery preserve traces of the quarter's history.

What to notice

The restrained exterior contrasts with a prayer hall combining neoclassical architecture and rococo details. A central bimah, ten-branched candelabra, Holy Ark and women's gallery define the interior. The ceiling carries tablets of the Law and Stars of David. The museum preserves a carved Chair of the Prophet Elijah, ritual silver, vestments and objects associated with Jewish religious life.

Context and history

The synagogue was inaugurated in 1786 to designs by Giuseppe del Rosso. The ghetto was abolished in 1859, and redevelopment in 1935 altered much of the surrounding quarter. The building suffered bombing damage during the Second World War and was later restored. The museum interprets the community's history and the religious and cultural traditions preserved in Siena.