Project

Built in 1928, Tifereth Israel Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in Rio de Janeiro and was for several decades the center of Jewish life in Nilopolis, a suburban enclave whose Jewish community grew significantly during World War II. The synagogue hosted Brazil’s first Yiddish theater, and became a cultural venue hosting lectures relevant to political matters of the era.

Built in 1928, Tifereth Israel Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in Rio de Janeiro and was for several decades the center of Jewish life in Nilopolis, a suburban enclave whose Jewish community grew significantly during World War II. The synagogue hosted Brazil’s first Yiddish theater, and became a cultural venue hosting lectures relevant to political matters of the era.

In the 1950s Nilopolis went into decline as its residents moved to wealthier areas in the region. As a result of its dwindling congregation, the synagogue was forced to close in 1984. In 2002, it was designated a protected site, and the National Museum and Federal University of Rio de Janeiro began planning the restoration of the synagogue.