Bevis Marks Synagogue

The oldest synagogue in continuous use in the United Kingdom stands right before your very eyes. It is the Bevis Marks Synagogue in London. In the heart of the City of London, the synagogue has witnessed centuries of history. It was built in 1701, following the resettlement of Jews in England under Oliver Cromwell. It is the only one in Europe that has continuously held regular services for over 300 years. It was built by the Spanish and Portuguese Sephardi community, who fled religious persecution in Spain and Portugal. The synagogue’s collection contains a thousand beautiful, ornate works of art and craftsmanship, including Torah scrolls, ritual silver items, vestments, books and furniture. It is the oldest and most complete collection of any Jewish establishment in the UK and one of the most complete in Europe. The Bevis Marks Synagogue also boasts a number of unique features. The ark, the cabinet that contains the Torah scrolls, is built in the Renaissance style. There are also seven large brass candelabras – the biggest of which represents the Sabbath. The congregation here is very traditional, and the synagogue is often a place for weddings and other celebrations. Even today, the synagogue’s main lighting is provided by candlelight. Bevis Marks Synagogue has been the site of both tragedy and triumph. It was damaged during the London Blitz and a terrorist attack. It has also been the centre of a number of important moments in Jewish history. The synagogue still serves as an important place of worship for the Sephardi community in London today. Its history is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Jewish people.