The Jewish Synagogue, Kochi is one of the exemplary sightseeing
spots in Kerala. It is also known as Mattancherry Synagogue or
the Cochin Jewish Synagogue. It is well maintained and functions
as the place of worship for the existing Jewish community. The
original Synagogue was built in the 4th century in Kodungallur
and later on was moved to Cochin. In Cochin it was built in 1568
with the help of Raja Rama Verma. The first synagogue of the
Malabari Jews in Cochin was built in 1344 and was destroyed in
1500 during the Portuguese singling out the Malabari Jews of
Kerala. The synagogue that was built after the destruction is
the present one. It is also known by the name of Paradesi
synagogue since it was made under the patronage of Dutch and in
Indian language Paradesi means Foreign. The members of the
synagogue belong to Malabai Yehudan community. The Jewish
Synagogue is a store house of various precious treasures in the
form of antiques and artifacts. The floor is adorned with classy
hand painted 18th century