Synagogue

The Synagogue of Siena, currently the product of a major project involving the extension and renovation of its original premises by Florentine architect Giuseppe del Rosso, first opened its doors in May 1786. Situated in Vicolo delle Scotte, it is used by the local Jewish community for religious services to this day.
Its simple façade and, in total contrast, its elegant and richly adorned interior are typical features of synagogues built before the Emancipation. Devoid of all distinguishing features on the outside, they are invariably sumptuously decorated on the inside.
The interior of the Synagogue, in the Neoclassical style with Rococo elements, hosts rows of benches down the sides, while the lectern in the centre, made in 1756, is enriched with nine 18th century ten-armed candelabra. On the wall behind the podium, three arches house windows in the Neoclassical style.
The mechitza, a balcony enclosed by a wooden latticework grate, overlooks the Torah Ark adorned with marble columns and capped by a curvilinear pediment,
The Tables of the Law in white and blue-painted stucco grace the centre of the ceiling.
The Synagogue hosts items of immense value, including an Elijah’s Chair, or circumcision chair, in carved and inlaid wood donated by Rabbi Nissim in 1860.