Touro Synagogue Review

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Touro Synagogue

Fodor's Review:

Jews, like Quakers and Baptists, were attracted by Rhode Island's religious tolerance; they arrived in Newport as early as 1658, possibly from Holland or the West Indies. At first they worshipped in homes, but by 1758 they were numerous enough to begin building a synagogue. Dedicated in 1763, the Touro Synagogue is the oldest surviving synagogue in the United States. Although simple on the outside, the Georgian building, designed by Peter Harrison, has an elaborate interior. Its classical style influenced Thomas Jefferson in the building of Monticello and the University of Virginia.

  • Cost: Free
  • Open: Guided tours on the ½ hr: early July-early Sept., Sun.-Fri. 10-5; late May-early July and early Sept.-Oct., weekdays 1-3, Sun. 1-3; Nov.-late May, Fri. 1PMtour only, Sun. 11-3. Services: 1 in morning and 1 in evening, call for times
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