Subject: The Synagogues
Article:


In 1724 the Portuguese and German Jews went separate ways thus the two synagogues.

The Portuguese 'Sedek Ve Shalom' (a wooden structure) synagogue , located on the Heerenstraat 20, Paramaribo, was built in 1736-1737. The exterior was completely renovated in 1854 by architect Voigt. Unfortunately the renovated synagogue was so much altered that is has become difficult to distinguish which parts date back to the 18th century. The exterior shows a similarity with the Lutheran and Reformed churches. Some brass chandeliers show the engraved names of the original donors.

A German synagogue 'Neve Shalom' located on the Keizerstraat, Paramaribo is considered one of the nicest houes of worship. The synagogue was built in 1835-1836 by the architect J.F. Halfhide to replace a synagogue which burnt down in 1775. Prins Willem Frederick Hendrik was present for the ground breaking. The construction is simple. The interior is spacious and light with dark furniture of specially selected Surinamese hard woods. Chandeliers with candle shaped bulbs hang from the ceiling. The floor is covered with white sand from the Joden Savanna. The paint colors reflect a typical Surinamese preference for white facades and dark green doors. Next to the synagogue is a small two story building (1830) where ritual baths took place.






Met dank aan Albert Buys








Met dank aan Albert Buys