Yanbol Synagogue

The Yanbol synagogue was founded by the Jewish congregation migrated from the Yanbol (Nigbolu or Necropolis) of Bulgaria. A document dated 21 May 1693 proves that the synagogue was active during the Byzantine period. There are still constructions from that period in the complex of the synagogue. The main building used as synagogue is made of wood. According to the traveler Schneider the synagogue was restored in 1709 by Yakov bin Yaseh. The ceiling of the main praying hall is decorated with landscape oil paintings. This ceiling was reconstructed at the end of the 19th century, in 1895 after the big Balat fire. The date 5655 (1895) marked at the main entrance shows that not only the ceiling the whole building was restored in 1895. The Ehal of the Yanbol synagogue, like the Ahrida synagogue was decorated with mother of pearl. The Ehal is reached by three small steps. The Women section, the Azara, is placed on top of wooden columns and is located on the north side of the synagogue. During the restoration of the Ahrida synagogue, the services were held in the Yanbol synagogue.