Turkish synagogues get makeover as Izmir strives for UNESCO stamp - Al-Monitor: The Middle Eastʼs leading independent news source since 2012

Nazlan Ertan

Nazlan Ertan

Sep 16, 2021

Hevra Synagogue — Izmir's Hevra synagogue is seen before restoration works in 2019. — Nesim Bencoya/Izmir Jewish Heritage Foundation

Istanbul Jewish community members Eftali Pinto (L) and Aviel Kohen (9), use shofars, musical instruments made from the horn of a ram or other kosher animal, during the re-opening ceremony of the Great Synagogue in Edirne, western Turkey March 26, 2015. A five-year, $2.5 million government project has restored the Great Synagogue in the border city of Edirne, the first temple to open in Turkey in two generations. The opening is part of a relaxation of curbs on religious minorities during President Tayyip Erd

For Turkey's youngest Jews, ancestral tongue fading away

Nazlan Ertan

In Izmir, reporting on culture

"The Club," a Netflix series released on Nov. 5, looks at the turbulent past of the Jewish community in Turkey in the 1950s.

Netflix series awakens ghosts of past for Turkey's Jews

Nazlan Ertan

In Izmir, reporting on culture

Turkish pop singer Tarkan performs March 3, 2007, during his concert in Rotterdam.

Turkish megastar comes under fire for centennial concert in Izmir

Nazlan Ertan

In Izmir, reporting on culture

A view of the of Sardis Synagogue's interior, Manisa, Turkey.

Monumental synagogue emerges from ancient ruins in Turkey

Murat Erdin