Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
Mikvé Israel-Emanuel, founded by Sephardic Jews, is the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas, famous for the white sand covering its floor. 3 min from the hotel
Dating to the 1730s, the synagogue is a serene, beautiful space a few minutes' walk from the hotel. The sand floor recalls both the desert of the Exodus and the muffled footsteps of Jews practising in secret during the Inquisition. A small museum next door tells the story of Curaçao's historic Jewish community. Modest dress is appreciated for visits.
Good to know
- The sand floor is the highlight — ask a guide about its meaning.
- Visit the adjoining Jewish Cultural Museum.
- Dress modestly out of respect for the active congregation.
Questions & answers
Why does the synagogue have a sand floor?
The sand symbolises the desert of the Exodus and recalls the muffled footsteps of Jews who worshipped secretly during the Spanish Inquisition.
Majestic City Palace — a restored 1892 monument in Punda, steps from everything in this guide.