The revival
Etz Hayim Synagogue
The building is easily observed from the street with a slightly cambered façade and several shops below. The entrance located to the side of the shops gives access both to the basement and the upper level. Steps leading to the upper-level reach to a Beit Midrash, backed with a covered staircase ending at the women’s section.
The upper main prayer hall of the synagogue is also reached through the Beit Midrash. The Ehal (Sephardic use for Aron Akodesh) is where the holy Torah scrolls are stored. It is decorated with the Tevah to its both sides. The four unique columns of the once central Tevah, create a focus for an impressive ceiling decoration piece. The original wall paintings, discovered as a result of recent works, give a vivid touch to the site and whisper more about its history.
As seen on
Izmir: The First Juderia