Kadoorie Synagogue

Kadoorie Mekor Haim Synagogue in Porto is an Orthodox Jewish synagogue and the seat of the city's Jewish community, regarded as the largest synagogue on the Iberian Peninsula. It stands at 340 Rua de Guerra Junqueiro, in the Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos parish, west of the historic centre. For many travellers it is one of the most rewarding stops tied to Portugal's Jewish history.

What does Mekor Haim mean?

In Hebrew, "mekor haim" means "source of life". "Kadoorie" comes from the family of philanthropists who funded the building. The site is also often called simply the Porto Synagogue.

When and why was it built?

Construction began in 1929 and the synagogue was inaugurated in 1938. The timing is striking: while synagogues were being destroyed in Germany, Porto was completing one of the largest in western Europe. The Kadoorie family paid for a large part of the construction. After the death of Laura Kadoorie, wife of Sir Elly Kadoorie, her children wished to honour their mother. She was descended from Portuguese Jews who left the country after the Inquisition began, so the gift also carried a sense of return to roots.

What does the building look like?

For a religious building, the architecture is unusual. The style is best described as Art Deco: simple geometric shapes and lines and a bold white exterior reminiscent of Bauhaus-style buildings. You will not find the rich ornament of many older synagogues, yet the structure is still impressive.

Who is it for?

• Anyone interested in Sephardic Jewish history and the aftermath of the expulsions from the Iberian Peninsula.
• Fans of interwar architecture and Art Deco.
• Travellers who want to see Porto beyond the classic riverside views.

Getting there and visiting

The synagogue lies outside the strict centre, in Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos, not far from the Boavista area and the Palácio de Cristal gardens. From Ribeira you can reach it by taxi or public transport. Coordinates: 41.1559 N, 8.6369 W. Because it is a working place of worship, visiting arrangements can change, so check current hours and entry conditions with the Jewish community before you go. Dress appropriately for a house of prayer.

Frequently asked questions

Is it an active synagogue? Yes, it is an Orthodox synagogue serving a living Jewish community.

What does Mekor Haim mean? "Source of life" in Hebrew.

What architectural style is it? Art Deco, with geometric forms and a white facade.

Is it the largest synagogue in the region? It is regarded as the largest on the Iberian Peninsula.

When did it open? In 1938, after nine years of construction.

Who funded it? The Kadoorie family paid for a large part of it, in memory of Laura Kadoorie.