Located at Adriaan Laclé Boulevard 2 in Oranjestad, Aruba, Beth Israel Synagogue offers you a unique look into the island's vibrant, close-knit Jewish heritage. Established in 1956 and completed in 1962, this Progressive Jewish congregation serves an independent, liberal community with traditions similar to Reform or Conservative Judaism. When you visit, you are exploring a place shaped by a diverse wave of global immigrants.
Following 1924, Eastern European Jews—predominantly from Poland—settled on the island alongside families from the Netherlands and Sephardic Jews from Suriname. After opening the Jewish Country Club in 1942, the community officially organized in 1946 as Holocaust survivors arrived. Today, led by Rabbi Alberto (Baruch) Zeilicovich since September 2022, the active congregation includes roughly 75 local members and 180 overseas members.
What makes this sanctuary especially remarkable to see and experience is its harmonious blend of Sephardic and Ashkenazic traditions. Because of its intimate size, the community formed one unified organization where members respect their shared culture while celebrating their distinct heritage differences. Pay a visit to appreciate this resilient sanctuary that gracefully connects Aruba's multicultural past to its welcoming, progressive present.
What to see at Beth Israel Synagogue
- Progressive Jewish synagogue located on Adriaan Laclé Boulevard in Oranjestad
- Unique unified congregation blending Sephardic and Ashkenazic traditions
- Rich history originating from global immigration waves starting after 1924
- Led by Rabbi Alberto (Baruch) Zeilicovich since September 2022
Visiting tips
Take time to appreciate how this small, intimate community thoughtfully honors both Sephardic and Ashkenazic heritage under one roof.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Beth Israel Synagogue is easy to reach on Oranjestad’s public transport, and pairs naturally with St Ann's Church and St. Francis of Assisi Church, Oranjestad. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Oranjestad travel guide.
See the full Oranjestad travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.