Synagogue Ben Ezra


The Ben Ezra Synagogue, also known as the El-Geniza Synagogue or the Synagogue of the Levantines, is located in the Fustat part of Old Cairo, Egypt. According to local folklore, it is said to be situated on the site where baby Moses was found. The synagogue has a rich history and is considered one of the oldest synagogues in the world.

Originally built as a church in the 8th century, the building was later converted into a synagogue in 882 CE by Abraham Ben Ezra, a Karaite Jewish merchant. The synagogue has undergone various renovations and restorations throughout its history. In recent years, it has been the focus of a decade-long restoration project and was reopened to the public in 2023.

The Ben Ezra Synagogue is of significant historical and cultural importance. It is particularly known for the discovery of the Cairo Genizah, a collection of Jewish religious texts and documents that were found in the synagogue's storeroom in the 19th century. The texts provide valuable insights into Jewish history, traditions, and everyday life during the medieval period.