Rehabilitation of Moses Eldiri Synagogue Guide to Adaptive Reuse

Elshaer, Rofaida Ahmed; Esmail, Mohammed; Tarek Saleh, Mennatallah; Albir Wasfy Momtaz, Sandy; Gamal Abdallah, Mai; Mamdouh Mahmoud, Shahd

doi:10.21608/ijmsac.2025.344519.1043

	Rehabilitation of Moses Eldiri Synagogue Guide to Adaptive Reuse
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies in Architecture and Cultural Heritage
Volume 7, Issue 2, December 2024, Page 40-50 PDF (717.37 K)
Document Type: Original Article
DOI: 10.21608/ijmsac.2025.344519.1043
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Authors
Rofaida Ahmed Elshaer ¹; Mohammed Esmail²; Mennatallah Tarek Saleh ³; Sandy Albir Wasfy Momtaz⁴; Mai Gamal Abdallah⁴; Shahd Mamdouh Mahmoud⁴
¹Restoration and conservation of architecture heritage, Archaeology,Ain shams University, Egypt
²Assistant Lecturer, Faculty of Archaeology, Ain Shams University
³Assistant Professor of Architecture and Heritage Conservation - Ain Shams University
⁴Student at Faculty of Archaeology, Ain Shams University
Abstract
The Moses El-Diri Synagogue in Abbasiya, Cairo, built between 1900 and 1925, holds significant historical, cultural, and architectural value. Serving the Karaite Jewish community, which rejected the Talmud and emphasized the Hebrew Bible, the synagogue became a symbol of their distinct traditions. Designed with a minimalist aesthetic, it featured a central dome, marble stairs, and Hebrew inscriptions. However, political changes in the mid-20th century, especially under President Nasser, led to the community’s decline and the synagogue’s closure. The proposed rehabilitation aims to restore the building, focusing on structural repairs, preserving its decorative elements, and incorporating sustainable practices like energy-efficient lighting. Beyond physical restoration, the synagogue will be transformed into a center for cultural and educational programs, showcasing the Karaite Jewish community’s history through exhibits and interactive experiences. Community engagement will be a key focus, fostering local and international participation in preserving the site. Visitor amenities like a café, gift shop, and accessibility features will enhance the experience, ensuring inclusivity. Financial sustainability will come from a mix of public funding, private sponsorships, and tourism revenue. This project will not only preserve Egypt’s multicultural heritage but also promote intercultural understanding, making the synagogue a symbol of inclusivity and tolerance for future generations.
Keywords
Synagogue; Jewish; Karait Sect; Rabbis; Genize


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