When you visit south-central Turkey, you can discover the quiet history of the Gaziantep Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue of Gaziantep. Located in the city of Gaziantep, this former Jewish house of worship stands as a poignant reminder of the region's diverse cultural heritage. Although the building is currently abandoned and no longer serves an active Jewish congregation, its physical presence offers a unique window into the past.
Why should you include this site on your itinerary? Walking up to this monumental structure allows you to appreciate a significant piece of Turkish Jewish history. The synagogue originally closed its doors back in the 1970s when the last remaining members of Gaziantep's Jewish community departed, leaving the structure to fall into disrepair.
However, a joint restoration effort between the Turkish government and the local Jewish community revitalized the building in 2012. When you explore the site, which officially opened to visitors in 2014, you will see an impressive two-story stone building designed to hold several hundred worshippers. While its exact construction date remains unknown, its enduring stone walls tell a story of renewal, highlighted by a memorable 2019 Hanukkah celebration that gathered 200 people inside.
What to see at Gaziantep Synagogue
- Historic two-story stone building constructed for several hundred worshippers
- Restored in 2012 through collaboration between government and Jewish community
- Opened to public visitors in 2014 after years of disrepair
- Site of a special 2019 Hanukkah celebration with 200 attendees
Visiting tips
Take time to admire the impressive stone craftsmanship of this historic two-story structure during your visit to Gaziantep.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Gaziantep Synagogue is easy to reach on Gaziantep’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Gaziantep Castle and Zeugma Mosaic Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Gaziantep travel guide.
See the full Gaziantep travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.