Several other Turkish cities and towns have historic synagogues which are open for worship. In Ankara, the Samanpazari district has a historic Synagogue which is due for restoration, it is situated in the quarter of sakalar in Samanpazari.
Jewish people living in Ankara use the edifice for worshipping and for their special days such as marriage ceremonies, funeral and other festivals, there are only about 100 Jews in Ankara.
The Samanpazari Synagogue is opened only for wedding ceremonies, funerals and special occasions.
Birlik Sokak, Samanpazari. Tel: +90 312 3116200. Israel Legation, Vali Dr. Resit Caddesi, Farabi Sok No.43, Cankaya. Tel: +90 312 4264993.
Inside Samanpazari Synagogue
Jewish Quarter in Samanpazari Ankara-Turkey
The area on the skirts of the Ankara Castle, known as Samanpazari, is a maze of alleyways lined with small stores selling specialty and everyday items. This cramped section of the city has a very different atmosphere than the rest of modern Ankara.
Serafettin Mosque in Samanpazari is usually open only at prayer times that’s why it’s very difficult to visit.