Ben Ezra Synagogue

Ben Ezra Synagogue Overview

Ben Ezra Synagogue “The prayer-place of the Jews” is sometimes called El-Geniza synagogue and it is located in old Cairo on the site where baby Moses was found. The storeroom of this synagogue was found in the 19th century and it contained a treasure of abandoned Hebrew, Aramaic and Judeo-Arabic secular in addition to some sacred manuscripts. It was originally named El-Shamisen Church, and is situated today behind the “Hanging church”. So from this point, we can say that Ben Ezra synagogue was a church and Jews bought it from Christians in 882 AD to pay the annual taxes to the Muslim rulers at that time. Abraham Ben Ezra was the one who bought the church from the Christians and he paid 20,000 dinars.

The Main Decorations of Ben Ezra Synagogue

The Geometrical Decoration: This decoration which dates back to the Turkish period can be seen on the side walls of the synagogue. It has patterns such as star patterns, pentagonal patterns, and rectangles.

Floral Decorations: These decorations were used as a background for the Geometrical patterns and they are also used in the star of David in the ceiling of Ben Ezra synagogue. It includes floral patterns in addition to palmettos and a lotus flower.
The southeastern side of the Torah closet is decorated with stalactites and the frame of the Torah Ark is a mimic decoration and on each of the two sides are two wooden columns with geometrical patterns, which have stalactite capitals of the Ottoman period

The style of the carving on the Torah ark door is a representative of the Mamluk Sultanate specifically during the 15th century. There is a medallion decorating the door designed with a motif common to bookbinding of that period. The 15th-century fire in Ben Ezra synagogue damaged the bimah or pulpit. One plausible theory is that wood from the damaged bimah was repurposed to make a new door for the Torah ark. The synagogue was repaired and renovated in 1488.

The Jewish community in Egypt is considered to be at the end of a dramatic decline. As in 1920, it was estimated that 80,000 Jewish people live in Egypt but now less than a dozen of them live there. That is why the Ben Ezra synagogue functions as only a museum for tourists and it doesn’t act its function as a functioning congregation.

Ben Ezra Synagogue is one of the most important landmarks in Egypt don’t miss the chance to visit it with other landmarks through Egypt tours packages

General Tips:

The Egyptian pound is the currency of Egypt, and all types of Credit cards are used in Egypt.
The metro is one of the fastest methods of travel within Cairo but a private car is more safe & comfortable.
Stay Hydrated during the summer at all time and don't drink any tap water.
Keep your tour Guide by your side to fully enjoy your time in Egypt.
Wear comfortable shoes like a closed toe shoes to easily travel across Egypt terrain.

Quality Measures:

Behold the great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and valley temple.
Explore the allure of Luxor in Hatshepsut temple, Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, Karnak temple and more.
Tour across the captivating wonders of ancient history at the Egyptian Museum.
Discover the Natural magic of Egyptian oases like Siwa or Bahariya
Swim, Dive and snorkel in mesmerizing Hurghada or cities situated on the Red Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

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Yes, it is available all years. as the Nile from Aswan to Luxor takes three to four days of sailing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the total cost of 600$ and the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take four to five days in Saturday, Monday and Thursday for the coast of 650$.

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Should I Give Tips in Egypt?

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What is the Best Time of Visit Egypt?

It is known the best time to travel to Egypt is in the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical, a warm atmosphere with a winter breeze. You will also be notified a week before your trip if the weather is unsafe or if any changes have been made.

Can I Enter the Pyramids?

Yes, you can enter the pyramids for the small fee of 20$.

How to Enjoy Egypt During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims that should be celebrated by non-Muslims and feel the essence of the Islamic culture. You can fast with the Muslim or just observe but you are always welcome to join the celebrations and festivals.

Ben Ezra Synagogue

Ben Ezra Synagogue