Surabaya Synagogue


The Surabaya Synagogue was a synagogue in Surabaya, Indonesia. The synagogue was built in 1948, located at Jl. Kayon 4-6. For decades, the old Indies style-building was the only synagogue in Indonesia that ever existed. In 2013, the owner sold the land, the synagogue was demolished, and it replaced by 17-story highrise hotel.

Cultural landmark status

In 2009, the synagogue was actually planned by Surabaya Department of City Culture and Tourism as one of the cultural landmark in Surabaya. Ironically, before the building was officially designated as cultural landmark by the Surabaya City Government, the real estate developer demolished the building without notice.

Demolition

In 2013, there were protests from Islamic organizations in front of the Surabaya Synagogue due to Israel attack on Palestine. The protesters also sealed the building and prompted to Surabaya City Government not to designated the synagogue as official cultural landmark. Because of years did not receive landmark designation, a real estate developer demolished the building. Jewish and Judaism people in Surabaya reported the action to the Surabaya Police Department, but there was no clear response from the police. Since 2018, the site is replaced by 17-story hotel.