Maghen David Synagogue

Magen David Synagogue, built in 1884 by Elias David Ezra in memory of his father, David Joseph Ezra, is a gem of Kolkata’s Jewish heritage... Located at Brabourne Road, it showcases Italian Renaissance architecture with a striking 142-foot spire and a London-imported clock tower... Inside, visitors can admire stained glass windows, chequered marble floors, ornate floral pillars from Paris, and glittering chandeliers, old pictures and documents... The synagogue reflects the city’s vibrant Baghdadi Jewish community and their contributions to Kolkata’s culture and commerce... Visitors must wear a kippah as a mark of respect inside... Photography is allowed, but videography is prohibited, and it is closed on Saturdays for Shabbat... A visit here offers a unique glimpse into Kolkata’s multicultural past and architectural grandeur—a must for history buffs and heritage enthusiasts...

Its a hidden gem of Kolkata. This Synagogue is almost 200 years old, still very well maintained. Visitors should carry their Aadhar cards to get entry here. No entry fee required. Its open on Sundays also, but in case of any meeting or function of the Jewish Community, normal visitors are not allowed.

When you reach through the maze of Boro Bazaar, you feel you've discovered a gem. Sadly, hawkers and vendors of every manner have encroached right up to the gates. The kindly caretaker opened up especially for me (he would do the same for any visitor). The synagogue is extremely well maintained and spotless. After sharing the history and stories of Jewish celebrations, I was left to explore in peace. Walking through brings a real sense of peace. My photos speak louder than any words.

A very beautiful place. Strange more people don't know about this place. The architecture is so beautiful and the place is so calm. The place is closed on Friday and Saturday for religious purposes. All other days it is open from 10 am to 5 pm. Here's how you find the gate and enter. The gate is hidden between the street vendors there. You approach and the gate will be closed. The gatekeeper will ask you the reason for your visit and will ask for your Aadhar card, or the photo of it. Otherwise you won't be able to enter. After entering they will open the main hall and you can see the beautiful structures there.

The architecture and the ambience of this place is awsome. The day I visited, was raining outside and someone was playing violin here... The music and the whole ambience had created a magic. Till I was there I forgot that I was in Kolkata...

Located in the Burrabazar area, this landmark is a bit difficult to locate among the billboards. It requires a valid ID proof to visit but does not require any ticket. If you are a male, then you have to wear a Kippa after entering the main hall. The caretaker will provide that on sight. Also the visitor need to write his/her details in a log. Photography is allowed but no videography.

This synagogue is an architectural splendor and a reminiscent of the rich Jewish history of Calcutta. The Maghen David Synagogue is not just a religious place, but also a popular tourist destination. It is frequently visited by foreign nationals from across the globe. To reach this place, you need to take any Howrah bound bus/cab and get down near the Portuguese Church. It's located exactly opposite to the Portuguese Church. To enter this beautiful Synagogue, you don't require tickets, but need to take permission from the security guard. He will open the main gate for you, check your government ID proof and will show you the way towards the Synagogue. As per the Jewish Culture, you need to wear the black Kippah after entering the Synagogue, which the caretaker will provide you. The ground floor is the praying zone, where you can sit and feel the calmness of the place. It's a huge area & the intricate carvings and designs on the walls will leave you speechless. You can also see some very tall fans and ceiling lights, which are hard to find in the current era. Now, after leaving the ground floor praying area, there is a staircase that leads you to the first floor. The first floor is the museum section of the Synagogue. Here, you will come across some exquisite paintings and articles pertaining to the history of Calcutta's Jews and this Synagogue in particular. Also, there is a balcony from where you can get a panoramic view of the whole synagogue. Do check out some of the photos shot by me. Highly recommended place to visit in the city of joy. 👍☺️

Renowned to be the second in lineage of the development of synagogues (situated in Kolkata). It has an intricate architecture, both from the interior and exterior point of view, and is beautifully maintained. Point to be noted: carry your valid identity proof to get the entry permit for a visit.