Exterior view of Temple Shearith Israel, a historic Hebrew synagogue in New York City

Congregation Shearith Israel

Congregation Shearith Israel: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide to New York City’s Oldest Jewish Congregation

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Congregation Shearith Israel, also known as the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue, stands as a living testament to the enduring legacy of Jewish life in America. Founded in 1654 by Spanish and Portuguese Jews fleeing the Inquisition, it is the oldest Jewish congregation in the United States. Located at 2 West 70th Street on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, opposite Central Park, Shearith Israel serves as a house of worship, a historical monument, and a vibrant community center. Its remarkable history, preserved traditions, and architectural grandeur make it a must-visit for anyone interested in American history, religious freedom, or Jewish heritage (Shearith Israel History).

This guide provides essential information on visiting hours, tickets, tours, accessibility, and nearby attractions, while highlighting the congregation’s historical milestones, architectural evolution, and ongoing cultural impact.

1970 Mo'adim Lesimkha commemorative stamps featuring Shaarit Israel Synagogue in New York

Facade of Temple Shearith Israel in Hebrew at 5 West 19th Street

Historical Overview
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Religious Practices and Community Life
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact and Further Resources
Summary and Recommendations
Sources

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Years

Shearith Israel was established in 1654 by 23 Jewish refugees who arrived in New Amsterdam (today’s New York City) after fleeing the Portuguese Inquisition in Recife, Brazil. Initially, the congregation met in private homes and rented spaces, as religious tolerance was not yet assured. Their successful appeal to the Dutch West India Company in 1655 set an early precedent for religious freedom in America (Shearith Israel History).

The congregation’s first purpose-built synagogue, on Mill Street (1730), was the first synagogue structure in North America. As the Jewish community grew, Shearith Israel remained the sole Jewish congregation in New York until 1825 and played a critical role in advocating for Jewish civil rights and religious liberty (Jewish Virtual Library).

Community Leadership and National Impact

Members of Shearith Israel were active in the American Revolution and subsequent civic life. Notably, spiritual leader Gershom Mendes Seixas supported the American cause and participated in George Washington’s inauguration. Through its members, the congregation helped establish major New York institutions such as the New York Stock Exchange and Mt. Sinai Hospital, and fostered the growth of Jewish communities throughout the United States (Shearith Israel Official Website).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Synagogue Buildings Through the Centuries

Shearith Israel’s physical journey mirrors the city’s evolution. The congregation has occupied five synagogue buildings:

Mill Street Synagogue (1730 & 1818): The first purpose-built synagogue in North America, later expanded as the community grew.
Crosby Street Synagogue (1834): A Greek Revival structure reflecting the city’s northward migration.
19th Street Synagogue (1860): A grand Moorish Revival building.
Current Synagogue (1897): Located at 2 West 70th Street, designed by Arnold W. Brunner in Neoclassical style (Daytonian in Manhattan; NY Landmarks Conservancy).

Architectural Features

Neoclassical Exterior: Limestone façade, symmetrical columns, and a commanding pediment, emphasizing dignity and permanence.
Tiffany Studios Interior: Stained glass windows and decorative elements designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany bathe the sanctuary in vibrant light (Village Preservation).
Sephardic Sanctuary Layout: Central bimah, prominent Torah ark, and historic ritual objects preserved from earlier buildings.
Historic Cemeteries: The congregation maintains the oldest Jewish burial ground in North America, with visible remnants marking the Jewish presence since 1683 (NYC Parks; Untapped Cities).

Religious Practices and Community Life

Sephardic Tradition and Liturgy

Shearith Israel follows the Western Sephardic rite, preserving melodies, prayers, and rituals that trace back to the Iberian Peninsula. Services are conducted in accordance with centuries-old customs, featuring unique liturgy and musical traditions (Sideways NYC).

Education and Philanthropy

Educational commitment is evident in the Polonies School (since 1802), ongoing adult education, youth programming, and the preservation of a rich archive of community documents (Shearith Israel Archives). The congregation has led efforts in social welfare and supported immigrant communities through the Sisterhood and participation in citywide philanthropic organizations.

Inclusivity and Civic Engagement

While rooted in the Sephardic tradition, Shearith Israel has welcomed Ashkenazi Jews and fostered intercommunal harmony. Its members have shaped New York’s civic, educational, and cultural life, reflecting a legacy of inclusivity, leadership, and advocacy for tolerance and minority rights (Shearith Israel Official Website).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Location

Address: 2 West 70th Street, New York, NY 10023
Phone: (212) 873-0300
Website: shearithisrael.org

Visiting Hours

Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: Limited access due to Sabbath; check calendar
Holidays: Hours may vary—always confirm via the official website

Admission and Tickets

Admission: Free for public services and monthly tours. Donations are appreciated.
Guided Tours: Offered monthly (typically the second Wednesday). Advance booking required for both free public and private tours (Shearith Israel Tours).
Private Tours: Available by appointment; may incur a nominal fee.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Ramps, elevators, and a wheelchair stair climber are available.
Assistance: Contact ahead for special needs accommodations.

Dress Code and Photography

Dress Code: Modest attire required (men: long pants, collared shirt, head covering; women: skirt/dress covering knees, covered shoulders).
Photography: Permitted only with prior permission; no flash or video during services (New York Dearest).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Getting There

Subway: B, C, 1, 2, or 3 trains to 72nd Street.
Bus: Several lines serve Central Park West.
Parking: Limited; public transportation is recommended.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings or early afternoons offer the quietest experiences.
Avoid major Jewish holidays unless attending services.

Nearby Attractions

Central Park: Directly across the street.
American Museum of Natural History: A few blocks away.
Lincoln Center and New-York Historical Society: Within walking distance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the current visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sundays, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Saturdays are limited due to Sabbath; check the calendar.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, for services and public tours. Private tours require advance booking and may have a nominal fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, monthly on a set schedule and by appointment for private groups.

Q: Is the synagogue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps and elevators; notify staff in advance for assistance.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Only with prior permission; flash and video during services are prohibited.

Contact and Further Resources

Official Website: shearithisrael.org
Tour Booking: shearithisrael.org/about/tours/
Archives and History: shearithisrael.org/archives
General Inquiries: [email protected]

Summary and Recommendations

Congregation Shearith Israel is a living monument to faith, resilience, and American Jewish heritage. Its centuries-old traditions, civic leadership, and artistic treasures—including Tiffany stained glass and Neoclassical design—make it a cultural gem of New York City (Village Preservation).