“Sinagoga(Synagogue) Israelita Brasileira”-The Bezalel Narkiss Index of Jewish Art

District: Mooca- São Paulo Brazil

Location: Rua (street) Odorico Mendes, 174

Foundation: This synagogue was founded in 1928 by Jews of Lebanese origin. At the time of the foundation, there were 13 families in this synagogue. It functioned initially at Oscar Horta Street and moved to Odorico Mendes Street, 174, in the Mooca district, in August 1930, when it was officially inaugurated. 

With the growth of the Jewish community in the neighborhood, the construction of a larger synagogue was considered in an area of the Barão do Jaguara street. But part of the visitors chose to build a new synagogue on Piauí Street, called Monte Sinai Congregation, in the neighborhood of Higienópolis. The frequency in the Brazilian Israeli Synagogue began to decline with the change of the regulars to Higienópolis, caused by problems with the floods in the neighborhood of Mooca, and the enrichment of this community.

Project: unknown author

Description of the building: The lateral entrance, through some steps flanked by two columns, unlike the other synagogues already described. The Bimah is not near the Aron Hakodesh, but is situated in the center of the male sector, which is located on the ground floor. As in the synagogues already visited, the women's sector is located on the first floor and is limited by low walls, which make it possible to follow the prayers and the vision of the male sector. A party hall was used for celebrations, parties and gatherings.

Current situation: The building is conserved and maintaining, as far as possible. The “Sinagoga (Synagogue) Israelita Brasileira” remains active. The building of this synagogue is in "constant maintenance", so that it is possible to remain in use: painted walls, excellent lighting and renovated floor. The benches of this synagogue, originally made of wood, were replaced by plastic chairs, arranged around the Bimah, and around the tables used for study. The old wooden benches were with termite and without conditions of use

Some photos uploaded:

Aron HaKodesh, on raised floor, in wood, with notches also in wood.

Bimah, on raised floor, in wood, is covered by a beautiful carpet

Rimonim supported by Bimah

Entrance of the Synagogue, with side columns.

Double door made of wood

Women's sector

Torót and details

Ner Tamid fixed to the ceiling, next to Aron Hakodesh

Windows with Maguen David

Synagogue building

View of the male sector

Old Party Hall

The Bezalel Narkiss Index of Jewish Art- Center for Jewish Art- The Hebrew University of Jerusalem:

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