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© Synagogue de Cavaillon
Synagogue de Cavaillon
The oldest synagogue in France with its own museum
The synagogue in Cavaillon is no longer used as a place of worship, but it's on many people's "must visit" lists if you're in the area, thanks to its ornate decoration and fascinating history.
Bearing witness to the life of the Jewish community during the 17th century, Cavaillon was a place of refuge just like the other French cities of Avignon, Carpentras and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and the life of the city revolved around the synagogue.
It was rebuilt in the 18th century (1772-1774), showing Provençal and Jewish cultures living together, as befitting one of the few Jewish communities to be tolerated. The lower hall, the former assembly hall for women, now houses the collections of the Judeo-Comtadin Museum.
Prayer books and old religious documents make up most of the displays in the museum. You can visit by guided tour only.
Worth knowing
In 1394, the Jews were expelled from Royal France, but at this time Provence was ruled by the Pope and was in fact the headquarters of the Papacy. This is how Provence got its name - from when it was a Province of Rome.
The Pope gave sanctuary to the fleeing Jews, who formed four communities at Avignon, Carpentras, Cavaillon and Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. However, "sanctuary" in this case did not mean freedom. The Jews had to live by certain restrictions. They had to wear yellow hats, in order that they could be identified, they were only allowed to live in one street, and were subjected to evening curfews.
Visitor comments
- "The building is colourfully painted and elaborately decorated but most religious symbols were subtle or hidden. Good tour and Worth doing" - Trip Advisor
- “Jewish History Uniquely Viewed” - Trip Advisor
- "This is a tiny synagogue. It's easy to find on the self-guided tour of old Cavaillon. We had a guided tour by an enthusiastic English-speaking guide. Because the synagogue is small, it doesn't take long, but is worth the visit." - Trip Advisor
