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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The synagogue of Avignon is an Israelite place of worship located in the heart of the old (Jewish quarter) career of Avignon, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Its current location, Jerusalem Square, dates back to a decision of the Bishop of Avignon in the late 1220s, which limited a closed space for the Jewish community, surrounded by three doors. This area, which was then obligatory for the Jews, was already home to an older synagogue, close to the Palace of the Popes and the Pont Saint-Bénézet.

The synagogue, sometimes called Escolo, was entirely rebuilt between 1785 and 1787 by architect François Franque, integrating community spaces such as a ritual bath, a butcher shop, a bakery and study rooms. Destroyed by fire in 1845, it was rebuilt in 1846 by Joseph-Auguste Joffroy in a neo-classical style, with a dome rotunda and white columns. Its walnut furniture and the absence of the seat of Elijah (tradition of the Comtadine synagogues) distinguish it.

Ranked a historic monument in 1990, the synagogue of Avignon bears witness to the thousand-year history of the Jews of Comtat Venaissin, marked by periods of restrictions and cultural development. Its current architecture, combining medieval heritage and 19th century influences, reflects the adaptations of the Avignonese Jewish community throughout the centuries. The archives also mention its central role in religious and social life, with spaces dedicated to marriage and study.

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