The synagogue was known with names of “Orahim” (in Hebrew) and “Phorasteros” (in Spanish), meaning foreigners or guests in both languages.It is presumed to have served to the Jewish immigrants who newly came to Izmir and joined the local Jewish community. These newcomers were likely to be merchant Jews, known as “los Francos”, many being former conversos and immigrating mainly from Italy. They formed a distinct group within the Jewish community.The synagogue, built in the 17th century, was active until a fire destroyment in early 1900s. After it collapsed and ceased to function as a synagogue, its courtyard was transformed to a kosher poultry slaughterhouse where kaparot, atonement ceremonies were held before Yom Kippur (holy fasting day).Currently, only the outer walls of the building exist in ruins.