History
The Sephardic community in Antwerp has a long history, dating back to the 16th century when Crypto-Jews (Conversos) from Spain and Portugal settled in the city. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a new wave of Sephardic Jews arrived from the Ottoman Empire (particularly Greece and Turkey), involved in the diamond trade. They established their own congregation, following the Portuguese rite.
World War II and Rebuilding
During World War II, the Sephardic community suffered heavy losses. The Portuguese Synagogue on Hoveniersstraat was closed and damaged. After the war, surviving members returned to rebuild their lives, and the synagogue was reopened to continue Sephardic religious and cultural traditions in Antwerp.
Today
Today, the Sephardic congregation (officially the Portuguese-Israelite Synagogue) continues to maintain its distinct heritage and liturgy in Antwerp. Located in the heart of the diamond district, it serves as a spiritual home for Sephardic families and remains an active part of the city's diverse Jewish community.