Building Name: | Great Synagogue of Cyprus |
Nocat Wdimage: | yes |
Location: | Larnaca, Cyprus |
Geo: | 34.9128°N 33.6299°W |
Religious Affiliation: | Orthodox Judaism |
Functional Status: | Active |
Leadership: | Rabbi Arie Zeev Raskin |
Year Completed: | 2005 |
Specifications: | No |
Great Synagogue of Cyprus, also known as Cyprus Central Synagogue, is the biggest and oldest of 5 synagogues in Cyprus.
Located in Larnaca, it was inaugurated on 12 September 2003.
The synagogue is affiliated with the Orthodox denomination, but welcomes Jews from other denominations and visitors of all backgrounds.
Until its opening, Cyprus was the only EU nation without an active synagogue. Chief Rabbi of Israel Yona Metzger told a crowd at the inauguration ceremony, "This is a historic event for Cyprus. We are very happy Cyprus is open to all religions."[1] Cypriot Education Minister Pefkios Georgiades said, "Cyprus is a state where all religions are tolerated and we welcome the Jewish synagogue." The ceremony included the inauguration of a Torah scroll and the laying of the cornerstone for a mikveh.