Touro Synagogue

The handsome Federal building (tel 401-847-4794), a half block up Touro Street from Washington Square, was named for a 19th-century benefactor, Abraham Touro, son of the rabbi who presided at the synagogue's dedication.

Designed by Peter Harrison (it resembles his King's Chapel in Boston) and built in 1763, the temple was the spiritual center of Jeshuat Israel, an Orthodox Sephardic congregation.

The synagogue and congregation prospered along with Newport, but after the British occupation of the town during the Revolutionary War, prosperity fled Newport and few of its erstwhile citizens returned.

In the late 19th century Newport came to life again. The temple reopened in 1883, and has been used for services ever since.

During the summer, short tours are conducted. You can see a copy of George Washington's historic letter on religious freedom to the congregation, written while he was president in 1790.

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