Mickve Israel Temple is one of the oldest synagogues in the United States and an important cultural site for the city of Savannah. Tour the building, an extraordinary example of Gothic revival architecture, and walk around its grounds. The synagogue features a small museum where you can learn about the building and its founders. The impressive structure is surrounded by some of Savannah’s best city squares, parks and other historic buildings.
Admire the stunning single tower design with original stained-glass windows. The Mickve Israel Temple was designed by New York architect Henry G. Harrison. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the late 20th century and is a rare example of a synagogue in the Gothic revival architectural style.
During the colonial period, a group of 42 Jews settled in North America in hope of finding religious freedom. The group of predominantly Sephardic Jewish immigrants from London founded the congregation. Learn the exceptional history of Mickve Israel Temple in the sanctuary and museum. Congregation Mickve Israel is believed to be the oldest Jewish congregation in Georgia and one of the oldest in the United States.
Discover a unique museum of Judaica within the temple. Among the museum artifacts is a Safertoro, a Torah scroll made of deerskin. This rare item once belonged to the original founders of the congregation in the early 18th century.
This magnificent synagogue is located on Monterey Square, one of Savannah’s beautiful city squares. Use meter-operated parking around Monterey Square if you drive to Mickve Israel Temple.
Sanctuary and museum tours of the temple operate on weekdays, excluding Jewish and federal holidays. A small donation is requested for tours. The temple also features a gift shop where you can buy religious books and children’s toys.
