Can visitors go inside Gibraltar's synagogues?

Short answer

Yes, by arrangement. Gibraltar's synagogues are working places of worship and visits must be booked in advance, either with the Managing Board of the Jewish Community or through the Gibraltar Tourist Board, which lists the Flemish and Great Synagogues as open on request.

Detailed answer

Gibraltar's four synagogues do not have public opening hours, and you cannot simply walk in. With a little planning, visitors can see inside.

How to arrange a visit

• Managing Board of the Jewish Community: +350 200 72606, [email protected]
• Flemish Synagogue (Nefusot Yehudah), which Visit Gibraltar says offers guided tours by arrangement: +350 200 76477
• Gibraltar Tourist Board information: +350 200 45000, [email protected]

Contact them several days ahead, give the size of your group and the dates you are in Gibraltar, and ask whether a guide is available. Commercial operators also run Jewish heritage walking tours through the old town covering the synagogue area, Irish Town and Bomb House Lane; check with the operator whether a tour includes going inside.

Timing

Avoid asking to visit on Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening) and Jewish festivals, when the synagogues are in use for prayer and Jewish-owned businesses close. Weekday visits are the easiest to arrange.

On the day

Expect your visit to be arranged in advance rather than on the spot, and dress respectfully, as you would for any place of worship.

Nearby

The Flemish Synagogue entrance is opposite the Gibraltar Museum on Bomb House Lane, and kosher food is available nearby if you want to combine a visit with lunch.