Safed - Synagogues

Between the artists' quarter and the old town of Safed to the north, with its many synagogues, is a broad flight of steps called Ma'alot Olei Hagardom. The name means "those who went up to be hung" - referring to the 12 who were hung by the British at Akko Prison and are buried here.

Just above the steps is Hameira House, with a privately owned collection of material on the history of Safed and Jewish life in the town. Beyond this, in a maze of narrow winding lanes, are a number of synagogues which externally can hardly be distinguished from the surrounding houses. They are all named after well-known rabbis. Here, with a little luck, can be found the Joseph Caro Synagogue, built on the foundations of the house once occupied by the