Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue

• AreaHanchi Snoa, Punda
• Consecrated1732
• Time45 min–1 h
• TipClosed to visitors on Shabbat

Tucked into a courtyard a few streets behind the Handelskade, Mikvé Israel-Emanuel (locally simply "the Snoa") is one of the most remarkable buildings in the Caribbean. The congregation dates back to 1651, when Sephardic Jews of Spanish and Portuguese descent came to Curaçao from Amsterdam and Brazil. The current synagogue was consecrated in 1732 and is the oldest synagogue in the Americas still in continuous use.

Inside the Snoa

Step inside and the first thing you notice is the floor: it is covered in fine white sand. Explanations vary, from a reminder of the Israelites' forty years in the desert to a memory of secret worship in Spain and Portugal, when sand muffled footsteps. Above it hang heavy brass chandeliers, and the dark mahogany furniture echoes the Portuguese Synagogue in Amsterdam, on which the building was modelled.

Next door, the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum displays Torah scrolls, ritual silver and everyday objects from the community's long history on the island.

Visiting

• When: open to visitors on weekdays; closed for visits on Shabbat (Saturday) and Jewish holidays. Hours change, so check the Jewish Museum Curaçao or Snoa website before you go.
• Ticket: one ticket covers the synagogue and museum.
• Dress: shoulders and knees covered is respectful; it is an active house of worship.
• Services: visitors are welcome at Shabbat and holiday services; see the congregation's site.

Nearby

The synagogue fits neatly into a morning in Punda with Fort Amsterdam and a crossing of the Queen Emma Bridge. For the wider story of Jewish Curaçao, including the old Beth Haim cemetery outside town, a guided tour helps: search GetYourGuide or compare on Viator. More ideas in our Willemstad guide.

Frequently asked questions

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