The Synagogue of Avignon is located in what is now Jerusalem Square.
Succeeding a first place of worship hitherto located between the Palais de Papes and the Saint-Bénézet bridge, it was built in this "quarry" (term from Occitan designating the street or the Jewish quarter in cities du Comtat-Venaissin) by decision of the archbishop in 1220.
This new quarter reserved for the Jews was then closed by three gates: the porte d'en-haut, the porte d'en-bas and the portalet de la Grille.
The 13th century building was rebuilt in the 18th century and then included rooms serving as a butcher's shop, bakery or dedicated to weddings and studies.
After a fire, a new synagogue was rebuilt in 1846, with a neo-classical style rotunda supported by columns and covered by a dome. This room dedicated to prayer is square in shape, which constitutes a break with the local architectural tradition. Its interior sobriety also distinguishes it from the previous synagogue. Note, however, its walnut furniture.
Open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and by appointment. Information on +33 6 82 14 51 22 or +33 4 90 85 21 24.
