Irish Jewish Museum

Housed in a former synagogue built in 1917, the Irish Jewish Museum offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Jewish immigrants who settled in Dublin from the late 19th century onward. Located on Walworth Road in the Portobello area, once known as 'Little Jerusalem', the museum features a restored prayer hall, ritual objects, and everyday items such as shop signs and family photographs. Visitors can explore two floors of exhibits that trace the community's contributions to Irish business, politics, and culture. The museum is run by volunteers and retains a personal, grassroots feel. Highlights include the original Ark of the Law, a mikvah (ritual bath), and a recreated kosher butcher shop. The neighborhood itself is worth a stroll, with many former Jewish-owned buildings still standing.

Don't miss

• Restored synagogue sanctuary with original Ark and stained glass
• Exhibition on Jewish life in Dublin, including shopfronts and domestic scenes
• Rare collection of Jewish ceremonial silver and textiles
• Photographs and documents detailing the community's history from the 1880s onward
• Guided tour by knowledgeable volunteers (available on request)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Irish Jewish Museum

Cheapest way inIrish Famine & Emigration Exhibition Dublin - Irish Diaspora4.7★ · 282 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →Most bookedIrish Rock 'N' Roll Museum Experience Dublin4.9★ · 6,752 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →Top ratedDublin Mythology and Folklore Tour with Irish Stories and Legends5★ · 1,186 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$28 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Opening hours vary seasonally; check the museum's website before visiting.
• Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash may be prohibited near sensitive artifacts.
• Combine your visit with a walk around Portobello to see former Jewish bakeries and shops.
• Guided tours are available and highly recommended for deeper context; ask at the entrance.

A bit of history

The building was constructed as the Walworth Road Synagogue in 1917, serving Dublin's Jewish community until the 1980s. After the congregation dwindled, the building was converted into a museum, opening in 1985 to preserve the heritage of Irish Jewry, which dates back to the 18th century.