Versailles Synagogue

Versailles Synagogue: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Versailles, France

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Versailles Synagogue, located at 10 rue Albert Joly, is an enduring emblem of Jewish heritage, community resilience, and architectural distinction in Versailles, France. Set in a city internationally renowned for its royal palace and gardens, the synagogue offers visitors a unique look into centuries of Jewish history, from medieval origins through waves of migration and modern cultural life. This comprehensive guide covers essential details, including visiting hours, ticket information, accessibility, architectural highlights, cultural significance, and practical travel tips, ensuring a meaningful and respectful visit (Times of Israel; jguideeurope.org).

Historical Overview
Architectural Features
Religious and Cultural Life
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Travel Tips and Getting There
Dress Code, Security, and Visitor Etiquette
Guided Tours and Events
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Centuries of Jewish Presence

Jewish life in Versailles dates back to the Middle Ages, but the modern community took shape after 1870, when Alsatian Jews resettled in the area following German annexation of Alsace. Earlier sites included a synagogue at 9 avenue de Saint-Cloud and, later, a converted mansion at 36 avenue de Saint-Cloud before the present building was constructed (jguideeurope.org).

A Monument of Resilience

Built between 1884 and 1886, the current synagogue was designed by Alfred-Philibert Aldrophe, a leading Jewish architect of the era. Its construction symbolized both the growing confidence and the integration of the Jewish community in French society. The synagogue was officially designated a historical monument in 2010, recognizing its role in the cultural and religious fabric of Versailles (Times of Israel).

20th Century Adaptation

The 20th century brought further demographic changes, notably with the arrival of Sephardic Jews from North Africa in the 1960s. Today, the community is predominantly of Moroccan origin, blending Sephardic liturgical traditions with the synagogue’s Ashkenazi heritage (jguideeurope.org).

Architectural Features

Exterior Design

The synagogue’s facade is a striking example of late 19th-century architecture, blending Romanesque solidity with Byzantine decorative elements. Features include:

A massive north-facing facade with twin-arched windows
Stone Sefer Torah sculptures on the pediment
Hebrew inscriptions from Deuteronomy and Psalms adorning the entrance
A rose window and stained glass visible from the street

Interior Layout

Inside, visitors will find:

The main sanctuary for Shabbat and holiday services
An oratory dedicated to André Elkoubi, a significant community leader
A women’s gallery featuring a historic organ, still used for ceremonies
Memorial plaques honoring benefactors and victims of war and the Shoah
The historic bimah (tevah), originally imported from Portugal in 1853

Symbolism and Legacy

The building’s bold architectural statements reflect a conscious assertion of Jewish presence and identity within the city. Notably, the grandfather of the renowned anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss once served as its rabbi, adding intellectual resonance to its history (jguideeurope.org).

Religious and Cultural Life

An Active Community

The synagogue is affiliated with the Consistoire de France and remains central to Jewish religious life in Versailles. Services are held every Shabbat and on weekdays, and the synagogue hosts a mikveh, educational programs, and a variety of cultural events. The annual prayer commemorating King Louis XVI’s execution is a unique tradition reflecting the community’s gratitude and integration in French history (jguideeurope.org; kosherdelight.com).

The ACIV (Association Cultuelle Israélite de Versailles), led by Maurice Elkaïm and Rabbi Arié Tolédano, organizes educational workshops, communal meals, and cultural events. The synagogue’s role as a site of remembrance and learning is further highlighted by its commemorative plaques and participation in major Jewish festivals and French national heritage days.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Address: 10 rue Albert Joly, 78000 Versailles, France
General Visiting Hours: Weekday mornings; closed to the public during Shabbat and Jewish holidays. Open to congregants for services.
Admission: Free; donations are welcome. Some tours may require advance booking.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible at the entrance, though some historic areas (such as the women’s gallery) may be limited. Contact the synagogue in advance for specific needs (Versailles Tourism).
Contact: Call or email for group visits, special tours, and current opening times.

Travel Tips and Getting There

By Train

Take RER C from central Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station (about 30–40 minutes); the synagogue is a short walk away.
SNCF trains from Gare Montparnasse (Versailles Chantiers) and Gare Saint-Lazare (Versailles Rive Droite) are also available (Versailles Tourism).

By Car

Public parking is available near the city center but can fill quickly during peak times.

On Foot/Bicycle

Versailles is highly walkable; the synagogue is accessible from major sites and bicycle rentals are available.

Dress Code, Security, and Visitor Etiquette

Dress Code: Modest attire required. Men should wear a kippah or hat; women should cover shoulders and knees. Head coverings are often provided but bringing your own is recommended.
Photography: Permitted in designated areas; always ask permission, especially during services.
Security: Expect security checks at the entrance; bring a valid photo ID and follow all personnel instructions.
Conduct: Silence phones, refrain from eating or drinking in the sanctuary, and respect all religious customs.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided Tours: Available by advance booking or during special events such as European Heritage Days and the National Day of Remembrance for Victims and Heroes of the Deportation.
Educational Visits: Schools and groups can arrange educational tours focusing on Jewish history and culture.
Community Events: The synagogue hosts regular services, cultural programs, and communal meals; visitors are welcome to attend with prior arrangement.

Nearby Attractions

Palace of Versailles: The world-famous royal palace and gardens are a 10-minute walk from the synagogue (Earth Trekkers).
Jewish Cemetery: Located at 3 rue General Pershing, dating to 1788.
Versailles Historic Center: Museums, architectural landmarks, and local markets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Weekday mornings; closed to the public on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. Confirm via the official website or contact the synagogue for current times.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Admission is free; donations are encouraged.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Photography is allowed in certain areas; always request permission, especially during services.

Q: Is the synagogue accessible?
A: The entrance is wheelchair accessible; some historic areas may be challenging. Contact ahead for details.

Q: Are non-Jewish visitors welcome?
A: Yes, visitors of all backgrounds are welcome, provided they adhere to respectful conduct.

Visuals and Media

Explore virtual tours and photo galleries on official heritage and tourism websites for a preview of the synagogue’s architectural and cultural features. Maps and images are helpful for trip planning:

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Versailles Synagogue is more than a historical building—it is a living monument reflecting centuries of Jewish life, architectural innovation, and cultural integration in France. Its strategic location near major Versailles attractions, free admission policy, and welcoming community make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and spiritual seekers alike.
Plan your visit by checking current hours, respecting synagogue customs, and considering a guided tour or community event to deepen your experience. For the latest updates, download the Audiala app and connect with local tourism resources.

Embrace the opportunity to explore the Versailles Synagogue—a testament to resilience, faith, and cultural continuity in one of France’s most storied cities (Times of Israel; jguideeurope.org; Versailles Tourism).