Dubrovnik Synagogue
The Dubrovnik Synagogue is a must-see for anyone looking to explore a unique part of the city’s history. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, it’s the oldest Sephardic synagogue in use today and offers a fascinating look into Dubrovnik’s lesser-known Jewish heritage.
The synagogue may be small, but it holds a wealth of stories. It still functions as a place of worship on special occasions and also serves as a museum, where visitors can get a closer look at the Jewish community’s long and often difficult history in the city.
We will take you through its rich past, the architectural details that make it special, and some tips for planning your visit. If you have an interest in Jewish history, or simply want to see a different side of Dubrovnik, this little synagogue is definitely worth adding to your list.
Dubrovnik Synagogue address
The Dubrovnik Synagogue is located in the Old Town, which makes it easy to visit while exploring the city’s other historic sites. You can find it on a small street that was once the heart of the Jewish quarter.
Here’s a quick guide to help you find it:
- Address: Ulica Žudioska 5, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Google Maps: Click here to view
Since the Old Town is pedestrian-only, you’ll need to walk from either the Pile gate or, a bit more closer, Ploče gate, but in general the synagogue is centrally located and easy to find. It’s just a short walk from the famous Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, and other nearby landmarks such as the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace.

History of the Dubrovnik Synagogue
The history of the Dubrovnik Synagogue is tied to the broader journey of the Jewish diaspora and the city’s own development as a cultural and trading hub. It was officially established in 1546 by Sephardic Jews, many of whom arrived in Dubrovnik after being forced out of Spain in 1492. To understand how the synagogue came to be, though, we need to go back even further.
Early Jewish Life in Dubrovnik
Jewish people have been part of Dubrovnik’s history since at least 1407. Back then, the Republic of Ragusa, as the city was called, allowed Jews to settle and live relatively freely. Dubrovnik was known for its diplomacy, and this openness made it a safe place at a time when anti-Semitic policies were widespread across Europe. The Jewish community played an active role in the city’s economy, especially in areas like trade and medicine.
By the late 1400s, after Spain expelled its Jewish population, a wave of Sephardic Jews found refuge in Dubrovnik. While there were some restrictions, like being required to live in a specific part of town (on what is now called Ulica Žudioska, or “Jewish Street”), the Jewish population grew and contributed to the life of the city.
The Synagogue takes shape
By the mid-1500s, the Jewish community was large enough to build its own synagogue. They set it up in 1546, in what was essentially Dubrovnik’s Jewish ghetto. The building has been there ever since, tucked away on a quiet street, filled with the history of generations who prayed, celebrated, and grieved within its walls.
It’s survived many hardships too. The synagogue withstood the massive earthquake of 1667 that destroyed much of Dubrovnik, and while it required some repairs, it didn’t fall. Later, during World War II, the Jewish community faced devastating losses as many members were killed or deported during the Holocaust. Yet, the synagogue remained, along with some of its most valuable artefacts.
Even during the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s, when the Old Town was heavily shelled, the synagogue survived, suffering only minor damage. Over the years, it’s been restored and remains an active place of worship during major Jewish holidays.
Dubrovnik Synagogue services
Regular services do not take place in the Dubrovnik Synagogue. However, despite the small local Jewish population and the absence of a resident rabbi, the synagogue opens for key religious observances, including Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement).
For these holidays, services are led by a member of the community. If you wish to attend, it’s recommended to inquire in advance. Visitors should dress modestly and men are expected to wear a kippah, which can usually be provided at the synagogue. Contact the local Jewish community office for service schedules or special events.
What to see inside the Dubrovnik Synagogue?
While it’s small and can be easily missed from the outside, the Dubrovnik Synagogue offers a powerful connection to the past once you step through the door. Its interior, completed in 1652, blends the local Baroque style with Sephardic traditions. The ceiling is painted a striking sky blue and decorated with golden stars, that invites you to look up and reflect.
One of the most significant features is the Holy Ark (Aron Kodesh), which holds the Torah scrolls. These scrolls were brought to Dubrovnik by the Sephardic Jews who fled Spain, adding to the weight of history within the synagogue’s walls. In the center, you’ll find the Bimah, or pulpit, where the Torah is read. A women’s gallery, added later in the 18th century, reflects the traditional separation of genders during services.
Other highlights include:
- Florentine chandeliers from the 19th century
- A Moorish carpet, which is thought to have been a gift from Spanish royalty
- Several Sephardic religious artefacts, including items brought from Spain and Portugal, which have survived through wars and natural disasters.
Synagogue Museum Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik Synagogue houses a small but meaningful museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich Jewish history of the city. Located within the same building as the synagogue, the museum preserves and showcases artifacts, documents, and religious items that tell the story of Dubrovnik’s Jewish community over the centuries.
The museum is modest in size but holds several significant pieces, including:
- Torah Scrolls: These ancient scrolls were brought by Sephardic Jews who fled Spain during the Inquisition, making them a vital part of Dubrovnik’s Jewish heritage.
- Historical Documents: These include community records, legal documents, and personal correspondence that highlight the Jewish presence in Dubrovnik dating back to the 14th century.
- Religious Artifacts: The museum displays several important religious items used in Jewish worship, such as menorahs, prayer books, and ceremonial garments.
- Holocaust Memorials: A section of the museum is dedicated to the memory of Jewish families from Dubrovnik who were deported or killed during World War II. It includes photographs, names, and personal belongings of those affected.
Visiting the synagogue in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Synagogue hours
The Dubrovnik Synagogue is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, so it’s easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule. Since it’s located right in the heart of the Old Town, you can combine it with a walk through other nearby landmarks.
Dubrovnik Synagogue entrance fee
The entrance fee is 10 Euros and gives you access to both the synagogue and a small museum. While some visitors feel the price is a bit high for the size of the venue, keep in mind that your ticket helps support the upkeep of this historic building.
There’s no need to book in advance. Just show up, buy your ticket at the door, and head inside. If you’re a history enthusiast, you might want to allow about 30-60 minutes to fully explore both the synagogue and the exhibits.
What to expect?
The synagogue itself is compact but packed with history. After buying your ticket, you’ll enter the main prayer room and a small museum, where you’ll find documents, religious artefacts, and items related to Dubrovnik’s Jewish community, including some tied to the Holocaust.
While photography isn’t allowed inside, take your time to soak in the atmosphere and learn from the exhibits. The displays are modest, but the artefacts tell a powerful story of the Jewish community’s presence in Dubrovnik over the centuries.
Accessibility
One thing to keep in mind is that the synagogue is located in an old building, and the main prayer room is on the first floor. Unfortunately, there’s no elevator, so it may not be accessible for visitors with mobility issues. The entrance could also be tricky for those with strollers or wheelchairs, so plan accordingly.

Dubrovnik Synagogue tour
For those looking to explore the Dubrovnik Synagogue in more depth, guided tours offer a richer understanding of the synagogue’s history and its cultural significance within Dubrovnik. These tours provide insight into the lives of the Jewish community in Dubrovnik through the centuries, their contributions to the city, and the challenges they faced, all while highlighting key features of the synagogue itself.
During the tour, visitors can expect to:
- Learn about the history of the Jewish community in Dubrovnik, from its early days in the 14th century to the present
- Explore the architecture and unique features of the synagogue, including the Holy Ark, historic Torah scrolls, and religious artifacts
- Hear stories about how the synagogue survived wars, earthquakes, and the Holocaust
- Visit the small museum within the synagogue, which houses important Jewish relics, documents, and historical items that offer more context on the community’s role in Dubrovnik.
Guided tours can be arranged through local tour operators in Dubrovnik, some of which focus on Jewish history or the broader historical landmarks of the Old Town. If you prefer a private, in-depth tour of the synagogue, it’s best to book in advance. You can also inquire at the synagogue itself for availability.
The tour usually lasts about 30–45 minutes and provides a more detailed experience than a standard visit, giving you the chance to ask questions and get a deeper understanding of this unique site.
How to make the most of your visit?
Here are a few tips to ensure you have the best experience possible:
- Take your time: It’s easy to rush through, but slowing down allows you to really appreciate the artefacts and stories on display. The items in the museum, like the Sephardic Torah scrolls and Holocaust documents, are poignant reminders of the synagogue’s role in Dubrovnik’s history.
- Dress respectfully: Since the synagogue is still used for worship on special occasions, it’s a good idea to dress modestly as a sign of respect.
- Consider a guided tour: If you want a deeper understanding of the synagogue’s history, a guided tour could provide added context that enhances your visit.
- Support the synagogue: While some may feel the admission fee is high for the size of the site, it’s important to remember that the money goes towards maintaining the synagogue and preserving its legacy. Your visit helps ensure this historic building remains open to future generations.
- Visit the Judaica gift shop: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Judaica gift shop located right next to the synagogue. The shop features handcrafted items such as mezuzahs, menorahs, and various decorative pieces, which allows you to support local artisans while finding meaningful gifts or keepsakes.
Dubrovnik Synagogue reviews
Visitors’ opinions on the Dubrovnik Synagogue vary, but the experience is generally positive, particularly for those with an interest in Jewish history or heritage.
Many reviewers appreciate the sense of history they feel when walking through the synagogue’s doors. They speak highly of the artefacts, noting that the centuries-old Torah scrolls and documents related to the Holocaust are particularly moving. Some say that the synagogue, though small, offers a deep and personal connection to Dubrovnik’s past.
On the other hand, some visitors feel the entrance fee is a bit steep considering the size of the synagogue. At 10 Euros, it’s not a cheap stop compared to other historical sites in Dubrovnik, and a few guests expected more for the price. However, most agree that the money goes toward the preservation of a historically significant site, which makes it worth it.
Some suggest that a guided tour could enhance the experience, providing more context and insight than the exhibits alone. As the displays are modest and may not offer extensive explanations, having a guide can make the visit more enriching.
Is the Dubrovnik Synagogue worth visiting?
If you’re interested in history, especially Jewish heritage, then the Dubrovnik Synagogue is definitely worth a visit. It’s small but filled with important stories and artefacts, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of Dubrovnik’s Jewish community over the centuries. The building itself is a testament to endurance, having survived wars, earthquakes, and the Holocaust. Even if you’re not specifically drawn to Jewish history, visiting the synagogue adds depth to any exploration of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
For those with a more casual interest in history, the visit may feel brief, especially considering the admission fee. But knowing that your ticket helps preserve a key piece of Dubrovnik’s diverse cultural past makes it worthwhile. The Dubrovnik Synagogue is one of those places where the power lies not in its size but in the stories it holds. It may not take long to explore, but it’s a meaningful stop for anyone looking to see a different side of the city.