About Us
The Jewish community of İzmir has had a significant presence in the city since the late 16th century. Over the centuries, Jewish families contributed greatly to trade, crafts, education, and culture, playing an important role in İzmir’s economic and social life.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the Jewish population in İzmir was around 40,000. The city had more than 30 synagogues, Jewish schools, printing houses, and hospitals, creating a vibrant and active community. However, due to migration, economic and political changes, wars, and the establishment of Israel, many Jews left İzmir for Europe, America, and Israel.
Today, the Jewish population in İzmir is between 1,100 and 1,200, and this number continues to decline due to aging and low birth rates. Despite this, the Jewish community in İzmir is dedicated to preserving its cultural heritage and passing it on to future generations. Various initiatives focus on restoring and protecting the city's historic synagogues, particularly in the Kemeraltı district. These efforts, supported by the İzmir Jewish Community and other organisations, help keep Jewish culture alive and contribute to İzmir’s diverse cultural identity.
Jewish traditions and holidays are also promoted through cultural events, exhibitions, and documentaries. Guided tours of the city's synagogues and historical sites allow both locals and visitors to learn about İzmir’s Jewish heritage. These ongoing efforts ensure that the history, culture, and contributions of İzmir’s Jewish community are remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
The İzmir Jewish Community Foundation
The İzmir Jewish Community Foundation works to meet the social and cultural needs of the Jewish community in İzmir. With roots dating back to 1605, the İzmir Jewish Community officially became a foundation in 2012. It carries out various projects to strengthen social solidarity, preserve cultural heritage, and improve the well-being of its members.
The foundation's main responsibilities include providing assistance to community members in need, supporting the elderly and the sick, and educating children and young people to help them grow into responsible and contributing members of society. Additionally, it oversees the maintenance and restoration of active synagogues and cemeteries in İzmir, ensuring the protection of historical and religious heritage.
Synagogues affiliated with the İzmir Jewish Community Foundation
Kemeraltı District:
Algazi Synagogue
Bikur Holim Synagogue
Shalom Synagogue
Señora (Giveret) Synagogue
Portuguese Synagogue
Bet Hillel Synagogue
Hevra Synagogue
Etz Hayim Synagogue
Los Foresteros (Orahim) Synagogue
Karataş District:
Bet Israel Synagogue
Rosh A’har Synagogue
Alsancak District:
Shaar Ashamayim Synagogue
Cemeteries
Altındağ Jewish Cemetery (active, maintained by the İzmir Jewish Cemetery Charity Association)
Gürçeşme Jewish Cemetery (no longer active)
Bornova Jewish Cemetery (no longer active)
Charity Institutions Affiliated with the Foundation
İzmir Jewish Cemetery Charity Association – funeral services
İzmir Orphans and Needy Children’s Education Charity Association
Karataş Hospital Management Association – elderly care
Cultural Association – youth activities and cultural events
By preserving its long-standing traditions and adapting to modern needs, the İzmir Jewish Community Foundation continues to serve its community today.
The İzmir Jewish
Community Center
The İzmir Jewish Community Center was established in 2019 to serve as a hub for the city's Jewish community. It provides a space for social, cultural, and religious activities, bringing together community members of all ages. The center hosts events such as holiday celebrations, educational programs, cultural gatherings, and workshops aimed at preserving and promoting Jewish heritage. It also serves as a meeting point for community engagement, strengthening connections among members and ensuring the continuation of traditions in modern İzmir.