Maghen David Synagogue
Synagogue · Ward 45 ·

Maghen David Synagogue

Synagogue · Ward 45 ·

Italian Renaissance synagogue with marble floors, stained glass

italian renaissance architecture
baghdadi jewish community
stained glass windows
marble floors
ornate pillars
chandeliers
spire-topped clock tower
multicultural past
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null
Maghen David Synagogue by null

Information

19, Synagogue St, China Bazar, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India Get directions

Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Information

Static Map

19, Synagogue St, China Bazar, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India Get directions

Features

•Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Last updated

Jan 20, 2026

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Baghdadi Jewish Community of Kolkata, India

"An imposing Baghdadi Jewish-era synagogue in Kolkata, notable for its Italian marble floors, colorful stained-glass windows, and a striking red steeple locally nicknamed the lal girja ("red church"). Erected as part of a once-thriving community that arrived from the Middle East in the late 18th century and peaked in the early 20th century, the building remains one of the city's most tangible Jewish architectural legacies. Though the Baghdadi population has dwindled to fewer than 30 today, the site endures as a symbol of the community's history and the city's longstanding spirit of religious coexistence—so much so that Muslim caretakers still tend to the synagogue." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/lost-cultures-living-legacies-podcast-season-2-episode-3-kolkata-11746214
Maghen David Synagogue

Aniruddha D.

Google
Maghen David Synagogue, Kolkata The Maghen David Synagogue is one of the most prominent Jewish heritage landmarks in India. Built in the 19th century, it is located in the heart of Kolkata and is closely associated with the city's once-flourishing Baghdadi Jewish community. Situated at the junction of Brabourne Road and Biplabi Rashbehari (Canning) Road, with Old China Bazar and Indra Kumar Karnani Streets to the rear, the synagogue occupies a central position in Kolkata. It was built and inaugurated on 11 September 1884 by Elias David Ezra, a notable Baghdadi Jewish businessman, in memory of his father David Joseph Ezra, during a period when the Jewish community in Kolkata was at its peak. Designed in the Italian Renaissance style, the synagogue features a striking brick-red façade and a tall central tower, making it one of the grandest and largest synagogues in Asia. The Synagogue at present is closed and is protected by security guards and cc tv.

Debnik B.

Google
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...

Debasree B.

Google
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.

Nive Raitz von F.

Google
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.

Rimi D.

Google
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...

Sambit B.

Google
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.

Sayan P.

Google
Magen David Synagogue (or the "Shield of David") is located at the junction of Brabourne Road and Canning Street (Biplabi Rashbehari Road) in Kolkata. Magen David is the second operating synagogue in Kolkata, the other is the Beth El Synagogue at Pollock Street

Soumyo C.

Google
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.