At 280 Broome Street on the Lower East Side, Kehila Kedosha Janina is a synagogue and museum devoted to Romaniote Jewish heritage. Built in 1927, it is the only Romaniote synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. The tradition has roots in Greece and is distinct from Sephardic and Ashkenazi practices. The museum and gallery upstairs explore Greek Jewish life and culture; guided tours and cultural programs add context to the building and its community.
A Romaniote synagogue in New York
Kehila Kedosha Janina was built in 1927. It is the only Romaniote synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, linking New York's Lower East Side with the Greek Jewish community of Janina.
Romaniote Jews follow a tradition distinct from Sephardic and Ashkenazi practices. The tradition is described as dating back 2,000 years, and the synagogue's museum and gallery focus on Greek Jewish life and culture.
The museum and cultural programs
The museum is upstairs in the synagogue balcony. Its focus is Greek Jewish life and culture, giving visitors a chance to explore Romaniote heritage alongside the synagogue itself.
Guided tours cover the synagogue's origins in Janina, Greece. Monthly cultural programming addresses Sephardic and Romaniote culture. The annual Greek-Jewish Festival brings together traditions, music and food.
FAQ
Where is Kehila Kedosha Janina?
It is at 280 Broome Street on Manhattan's Lower East Side.
What is Romaniote Judaism?
It is a Greek Jewish tradition distinct from Sephardic and Ashkenazi practices.
Is there a museum at the synagogue?
Yes. A museum and gallery upstairs in the balcony focus on Greek Jewish life and culture.
