Avignon's synagogue was first built in 1221.

A 13th century oven used to bake unleavened bread for Passover can still be seen, but the rest of the present round, domed, neoclassical structure dates from 1846.

Visitors to the synagogue should be modestly dressed and men must cover their heads.

This 19th-century synagogue, built on the site of a much older one destroyed by a fire in 1845, reflects the ancient roots of Jewish culture in Avignon. It was designed by architect Joseph-Auguste Joffroy and its neo-classical rotunda, set in a square building, represents a deliberate break with tradition.

The old synagogue at Avignon was destroyed by fire in 1845. It was replaced the following year by a new building designed by the architect Joseph-Auguste Joffroy. Its neo-classical rotunda set in a square building represents a deliberate break with tradition. The exuberant colours of the preceding century are now replaced by the rigour of white colonnades and sober furnishings in walnut. The specificities of the synagogue architecture of the Comtat - the double prayer rooms, the Rabbi’s tribune and the chair for the prophet Elijah - have disappeared, with the dispersion of the old Jewish communities and the immigration of Jews from Eastern Europe.

Hours: 10am-noon and 3-5pm (closed Friday afternoon and on weekends) 

Cost: Free