The Four Sephardic Synagogues

The term "The Four Sephardic Synagogues named after Yochanan Zakai" relates to four interconnected synagogues. They were not originally built as a single complex, but were apparently separate buildings that were gradually joined together as the congregation grew and required extra space to worship. The complex was established when the congregation of Sephardic Jews, who had originally arrived in Jerusalem as a result of the Spanish Inquisition, grew and needed additional land to establish its center. Through the span of several generations, four synagogues were established that have been operating for over 300 years.

The Eliyahu Ha-Navi synagogue (Elijah the Prophet synagogue)
The Yochanan ben Zakai synagogue
Istanbuli Synagogue<
The Kahal Tziyon Synagogue – Ha-Emtsai (The Central Synagogue)

During the War of Independence, residents of the Quarter found cover here for two continuous weeks. After the conquest of the Quarter, the synagogues were looted and destroyed. After the reunification of Jerusalem, the four synagogues were rehabilitated, and today they are used by all residents of the Jewish Quarter. Ashkenazim and Sephardim alike.