Larnaca Synagogue

Hasidic synagogue in Larnaca, Cyprus

34°54′46″N 33°37′47″E / 34.912787°N 33.629853°E / 34.912787; 33.629853ArchitectureTypeSynagogue architectureStyleModernistCompleted2005MaterialsStone^[1]

The Larnaca Synagogue or Great Synagogue of Cyprus, also known as the Cyprus Central Synagogue, is an Hasidic Jewish congregation and synagogue, that is located at Apollodorou 4, in Larnaca, Cyprus. Designed in the Modernist style, the synagogue was completed in 2005.^[1] It is the largest and oldest of the five synagogues Cyrus. The synagogue was inaugurated on 12 September 2003.^{[citation needed]}

Overview

The synagogue is affiliated with the Orthodox denomination, but welcomes Jews from other denominations and visitors of all backgrounds.^{[citation needed]}

Until its opening, Cyprus was the only EU nation without an active synagogue. Chief Rabbi of Israel Yona Metzger told a crowd at the inauguration ceremony, "This is a historic event for Cyprus. We are very happy Cyprus is open to all religions."^[2] Cypriot Education Minister Pefkios Georgiades said, "Cyprus is a state where all religions are tolerated and we welcome the Jewish synagogue." The ceremony included the inauguration of a Torah scroll and the laying of the cornerstone for a mikveh.

References

^ ^a ^b "Contemporary Synagogue in Larnaca". Historic Synagogues of Europe. Foundation for Jewish Heritage and the Center for Jewish Art at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. n.d. Retrieved August 24, 2024.
^ "Mazal tov! Cyprus gets first synagogue". Haaretz. September 13, 2005. Retrieved October 10, 2017.