Restored synagogue in Chania's old Jewish quarter, the only one surviving on Crete and a memorial to the 1944 deportation.
Etz Hayyim (Tree of Life) is the only surviving synagogue on Crete, set in the Evraiki (old Jewish quarter) of Chania Old Town. The building dates from the Venetian period and was a church before becoming a synagogue; it was damaged after the deportation of Chania's Jews in June 1944, when the ship Tanais carrying them was sunk. It was restored from 1999 and reopened as a place of worship and memorial. The site includes a courtyard garden, the prayer hall and a memorial to the victims. Entry is free, with donations welcome. Visitors should dress modestly and respect the building as an active place of worship; hours vary around Sabbath and Jewish holidays.
| Admission | Free (donations welcome) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Reported Monday-Thursday about 10:00-16:00, Friday about 10:00-15:00; closed Saturday and Jewish holidays. Confirm at etz-hayyim-hania.org. |
| Typical visit | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Best time | Weekday morning |
| Getting there | On foot from the harbour, about 5 minutes |
| Address | Parodos Kondylaki 24, 731 31 Chania, Crete, Greece |
Location
Parodos Kondylaki 24, 731 31 Chania, Crete, Greece
35.5171, 24.0153 View on map
Highlights
- Only surviving synagogue on Crete
- Memorial to the 1944 Tanais victims
- Courtyard garden
- Venetian-era building in the Evraiki quarter
Tips for visiting
- Check the official website for opening hours before visiting.
- Dress modestly and keep voices low.
- Do not expect to enter on Saturday or Jewish holidays.
- Donations are welcome.
When to visit
Weekday mornings.
Accessibility
Narrow lane entrance and some steps; limited wheelchair access.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No, entry is free and donations are welcome.
What are the opening hours?
Reported as weekdays around 10:00-16:00, shorter on Friday; confirm at etz-hayyim-hania.org.
What happened in 1944?
Chania's Jewish community was arrested and put on the ship Tanais, which was sunk on 9 June 1944.