Egypt has reopened the historic Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue, whose roots can be traced to the 14th century. The building had been closed for renovations following a partial collapse. Its reopening is hardly a sign of a Jewish resurgence, since few Jews remain in Egypt after most left 60 years ago in the face of hostilities. Only three Jews turned out at the January 2020 re-inauguration. Cairo photojournalist Hamada Elrasam gives us a peek inside the magnificent stone structure whose beauty and splendor gives visitors a sense of what was once one of the world's most vibrant Jewish communities.
Egypt Restores, Reopens Synagogue
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"It is great that Egypt is taking care of Jewish heritage. This is not only about Jews, but it is also about us Egyptians," said Magda Haroun, head of the Jewish community of Egypt, about the restoration of Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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A Jewish school is part of the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue, as there used to be a vast Jewish community in Alexandria, Egypt. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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An antique organ is among the relics at the Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue in Alexandria, Egypt. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)
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"The reopening (of Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue) represents opportunity to show that what unites us is far stronger from what divides us," said U.S. diplomat Dorothy Camille Shea. (Hamada Elrasam/VOA)