Are There Synagogues in Madrid Spain?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid and want to visit a synagogue, you might be wondering if there are any in the city. The answer is yes, there are several synagogues in Madrid that you can visit.

History of Jewish Community in Madrid

The history of the Jewish community in Madrid dates back to the 9th century, during the time of Muslim rule in Spain. However, after the Catholic Monarchs expelled Jews from Spain in 1492, there were no Jews living openly in Madrid for centuries.

Synagogues in Madrid

Today, there are several synagogues in Madrid that serve both locals and visitors. Here are a few of them:

Bet El Synagogue

Bet El Synagogue is located near the center of Madrid and is one of the main synagogues in the city. The synagogue has a Sephardic Orthodox tradition and holds regular services on Shabbat and holidays.

Shaarei Tefila Synagogue

Shaarei Tefila Synagogue is another synagogue located near the center of Madrid. The synagogue has an Ashkenazi Orthodox tradition and holds regular services on Shabbat and holidays.

Beit Rambam Synagogue

Beit Rambam Synagogue is located in the Chamartín district of Madrid. The synagogue has a Sephardic Orthodox tradition and also serves as a cultural center for the Jewish community.

Jewish Museum of Madrid

In addition to synagogues, there is also a Jewish museum located in Madrid that you can visit. The museum features exhibits on Jewish history, culture, and traditions both locally and globally.

Conclusion

While the history of Jews living openly in Madrid may have had its ups and downs over time, today there are synagogues and a museum that showcase the Jewish community’s presence in the city. Whether you’re visiting for religious reasons or just want to learn more about Jewish history and culture, Madrid has plenty to offer.