Touro Synagogue | Newport RI

Information

Landmark: Touro Synagogue
City: Newport RI
Country: USA Rhode Island
Continent: North America

Touro Synagogue, Newport RI, USA Rhode Island, North America

Touro Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in North America, located in Newport, Rhode Island, USA.

It is the only synagogue in the United States to have been designated a National Historic Site.

Visual Characteristics

The synagogue is a single-story rectangular structure constructed from red brick. It features a white-painted wooden steeple and a pedimented portico with four Doric columns. The interior is characterized by a central nave flanked by two aisles, with a raised bimah and ark at the eastern end. The ceiling is coffered, and the walls are painted a light color.

Location & Access Logistics

Touro Synagogue is situated at 7 Touro Street in Newport, Rhode Island. It is approximately 0.8km (0.5 miles) southwest of the Newport city center. Limited street parking is available on Touro Street and adjacent roads. The nearest public transport stop is the Newport Area Transit District (NAT) bus stop at Broadway and Touro Street, approximately 0.2km (0.1 miles) east.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Touro Synagogue began in 1759 and was completed in 1763. It was designed by architect Peter Harrison, who also designed other notable Newport buildings. The synagogue was built to serve the congregation of Yeshuat Israel, which was established by Sephardic Jews who fled religious persecution in Europe.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the sanctuary and learn about the history of the congregation and the building. Guided tours are available on a scheduled basis. The adjacent Jewish cemetery, the oldest Jewish burial ground in the United States, is also accessible.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. There is limited shaded seating in the immediate vicinity. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly at the synagogue; options are available in the nearby downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

The synagogue is open for tours during specific hours, typically from Sunday to Friday, excluding Jewish holidays. The best time of day for interior photography is during daylight hours when natural light illuminates the space. Weather is generally most pleasant for visiting between May and October.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical event occurred in 1790 when President George Washington visited Touro Synagogue and penned a letter to the congregation affirming religious liberty. The synagogue's original ark doors are said to have been salvaged from a ship.