Siena Synagogue

About

The Synagogue of Siena, located only a few steps from the Piazza del Campo, stands in the heart of the ancient Jewish Ghetto of Siena, where Sienese Jews remained confined until 1859. In 1571, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Cosimo I de Medici, extended the restrictive measures already in place in Florence to the state of Siena, where Jews had been present since the 12th century. Despite the limitations and the heavy restrictions imposed, the Jewish community of Siena increased, and its activities contributed significantly to the economic and cultural growth of the city. In 1786, the magnificent Synagogue of Siena was inaugurated. Today it remains the center of worship for the local Jewish community, and a shining example of Tuscan architecture, with Rococo and Neoclassical influences. Explore this historic site of cultural heritage and the adjoining Jewish Museum, and learn about the influence of Jewish culture on Siena.