The synagogue was founded during the Dutch occupation of Brazil under the leadership of John Maurice, Prince of Nassau-Siegen.
Following the Portuguese reconquest of Recife in 1654, the synagogue was closed and the Jewish community fled, with some contributing to the founding of New Amsterdam (later New York City).
Excavations at the site in the late 20th century uncovered the original floor level and a ritual mikvah dating back to the 17th century.
The street where the synagogue is located, Rua do Bom Jesus, was once named Rua dos Judeus (Street of the Jews) in the 17th century.
Kahal Zur Israel, located on Rua do Bom Jesus in Recife, is recognized as the oldest synagogue in the Americas. It was established in 1636 by Dutch Jews during the period of Dutch rule in Pernambuco. The site serves as a museum dedicated to Jewish history and the influence of the Jewish community on the development of the region. The building houses the original foundations and an excavated mikvah, a ritual bath, discovered during archaeological work. Exhibits trace the migration of Sephardic Jews from Portugal and Spain to Brazil via the Netherlands. The current structure is a reconstruction that integrates historical archaeological findings with modern museum exhibition spaces. It is located in the historic Recife Antigo district, which was the epicenter of colonial economic activity.
The main prayer hall featuring the bimah and the restored wooden architectural elements.
Combine your visit with a walk along Rua do Bom Jesus, which is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful streets in Brazil.
Check for temporary exhibits on the second floor, as the museum frequently hosts rotating content related to Jewish heritage in Pernambuco.
Do not confuse the historic entrance with modern commercial storefronts along the same cobblestone street.
Closed on Saturdays in observance of the Sabbath and usually closed on Mondays for maintenance.
Maintain a respectful tone as it is a place of historical significance and religious heritage; avoid loud conversations.
