The entrance of the synagogue before restoration.	The entrance after restoration.
The front facade of the dilapidating Synagogue before its restoration.	After the restoration.
The restoration works at the Chania Synagogue brought to light a cemetery in its courtyard that includes the tombs of prominent rabbis dating back to 1700.

Historical Data:  There were two synagogues in Chania.  The oldest of these still stands.  The Etz Hayyim Synagogue dates back to the 17th century.  In 1996, the Central Board of Jewish Communities in Greece launched a campaign for the restoration of the Synagogue of Chania.  The World Monuments Fund included the Etz Hayyim Synagogue in the list of top restoration priorities, the Ronald S. Lauder Foundation, the Rothschild foundation, the Greek Ministry of Culture, and a number of individuals from abroad responded to the appeal.  The restored synagogue functions again after 55 years and it is used at the same time as a center of cultural events, international conferences and other events in the town of Chania.  Only one Jew lives in Chania.

Area/Capacity:   150 sq. m.

Actual Condition:

Necessary Restoration Works:  Completion and development of the interior.

Estimated Cost:   10 million drs. ($29,000 US)

[The cemetery of Chania does not exist.  It was trespassed by neighbors and it was finally destroyed.]