Scola Canton

The Canton Synagogue, located in the Ghetto Nuovo of Venice, is one of the oldest and most fascinating synagogues in the city. Founded in 1531, the synagogue served the Ashkenazi community, mainly composed of Jews from France and northern Italy. The name “Canton” may derive from “canto”, which in Venetian means “corner”, indicating the position of the synagogue at the corner of the Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, or from the Canton family, who financed its construction. Externally, the Canton Synagogue appears discreet, with a sober facade in line with the restrictions imposed by the Republic of Venice, which prohibited Jews from building flashy religious buildings. This modest appearance, however, hides an interior rich in decorations and artistic details. The synagogue is recognizable from the outside by the small wooden dome above the bimah and by a Hebrew inscription visible from the canal side. Inside, the Canton Synagogue is a true gem of Renaissance and Baroque art. The synagogue has a rectangular plan, with the Aron ha-Kodesh (holy ark) and the bimah (pulpit) positioned on opposite sides, in accordance with Ashkenazi tradition. The Aron, where the Torah scrolls are kept, is a work of art in carved and gilded wood, dating back to the 18th century and reflecting the skill of the craftsmen of the time. The bimah is surmounted by a dome and surrounded by wooden benches, creating an intimate and solemn environment for Torah readings. One of the most fascinating elements of the Canton Synagogue are the eight panels with wooden bas-reliefs adorning the walls, depicting biblical scenes such as the fall of the walls of Jericho, the crossing of the Red Sea, and Moses bringing water from the rock. These panels, unique in Europe, are a rare example of narrative Jewish art and offer a glimpse into the devotion and creativity of the community that commissioned and created them. The ceiling of the synagogue is decorated with refined wood carvings and geometric motifs, giving the environment an air of solemnity and elegance. The women’s gallery, located above the entrance, allows women to participate in ceremonies without being seen by men, in accordance with the Jewish traditions of the time. This architectural arrangement reflects the separation of the sexes during religious functions, a common feature in historical synagogues. Throughout its history, the synagogue has undergone several restorations, the latest of which was completed in 2016-2017 thanks to the support of the World Monuments Fund. These interventions have preserved and enhanced the artistic and architectural heritage of the synagogue, making it accessible to visitors and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty and history.