Jewish weddings in Florence follow Jewish laws and traditions. Although weddings may take place in several venues, they tend to be held in specific locations according to the couple’s decision.
As one of the most significant European Synagogues is to be found in the Renaissance city of Florence, Italy, the Synagogue of Florence tends to be extremely sought-after as the best wedding venue for most Jewish weddings in Florence. Couples come from Milan, Naples, Rome, Venice, neighbouring towns and from far-off places just to have the opportunity to exchange their vows in this magnificent venue. The Synagogue is the perfect location for a Jewish wedding, thanks to its several art pieces and historical memorabilia.
Best city for a Jewish wedding
Florence is the ideal setting for a Jewish wedding as it is widely recognised as one of the most beautiful cities on earth. Amazing churches, places, streets and lanes, monuments and historical remains enrich every corner of the city: the perfect settings for an unforgettable and unique wedding day. Celebrate your Jewish wedding in Florence, the best place offering both magnificent and lovely synagogues as well as other charming venues.
Synagogues in Florence
To hold a Jewish wedding ceremony in the Synagogue of Florence, Italy, a letter from an Orthodox Rabbi stating that couples are Jewish and have no previous marriages is required. Your wedding is legally binding, so that in front of the others you are legally married to each other. Couples are also allowed to bring their own Rabbi, whether available, to celebrate their wedding in Florence, Italy.
The Great Synagogue of Florence
An ancient and impressive synagogue available for Jewish weddings in Florence is the Great Synagogue of Florence (Tempio Maggiore). One of the most beautiful examples of Jewish temples in Europe, the Synagogue was built from funds donated by David Levi, the president of the Jewish community. Its architecture is described as Moorish with Byzantine and Egyptian influences, while the façade combines two different types of marble to better comply with the surrounding architecture. The structure maintains two octagonal turrets with horseshoe-like entrances.
Interior mosaics and frescoes were designed by Giovanni Panti, while the great and impressive arch was made by Giacomo Del Medico. Gold is strongly used in the decoration in order to enhance the Moorish style of motifs. The building is characterised by marble floors, coloured-glass mosaics and stained-glass windows. Right in front of the Holy Ark is the Bimah, placed on a raised structure.
The Synagogue of Florence is a great example of exotic Moorish style and its main features, contrasting any traditional Florentine architecture from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. From every panoramic spot of the city, you can see the large dome covered with green copper (originally gilded), very prominent along the skyline. Furthermore, inner geometric decorations and wall frescoes are even more distinguishable thanks to the mellow light coming from the stained-glass windows and spectacular mosaics.
Outdoor Jewish wedding
If you are planning an outdoor Jewish ceremony, a Rabbi can perform it in one of the special venues you have chosen. Whether you opt for a medieval castle, a neo-classical villa or a Tuscan countryside farmhouse, you are in really good hands with the support of Brilliant Events: we will work very hard to select the best possible location for you!
Vincigliata Castle
Located between Florence and Fiesole, only a few minutes away from the centre of Florence, the secluded Vincigliata Castle is to be found on top of a hill, surrounded by green woods but providing a magnificent view on the city. Guests are welcome through the entrance towards the panoramic terrace in the garden: a perfect setting for the ceremony!
Villa Le Fontanelle
This luxurious villa is located high up on a hillside, in an exclusive private location offering unique spectacular views over the city. Villa Le Fontanelle contributes to creating a dreamy setting for your very exclusive wedding day, with its 2 acres and a half of pure beauty, peace and privacy.
Today, couples have many options to consider as possible wedding venues, as there are several tiny and enchanting Tuscan towns to discover, such as Certaldo, Lucca and Siena. All ceremonies can be arranged by your wedding planner Brilliant Events, which can also provide local-wine tasting or a full meal based on the authentic Tuscan cuisine.
Jewish marriage ceremony
Before the ceremony on your wedding day, two witnesses’ signatures are required on the ketubah (contract). Then there is the bedeken ceremony, where the groom uses a veil to cover the bride’s face.
The Jewish ceremony in Florence is performed by a Rabbi and it takes place under a chuppah, or marriage canopy, with both parents. Male and female guests are seated on the pews but separately, by the two opposite sides of the Bimah.
The ceremony is composed of two parts: the 1st part is called Erusin or Kiddush, which indicate the betrothal; the 2nd part is Nissuin, the actual marriage. Between these two parts, the ketubah (or marriage contract) is read. The betrothal traditionally includes: (i) a blessing on wine; (ii) the ceremony of the ring; (iii) the declaration of the groom about what the ring means, about how the bride is now his wife following the laws of Moses and Israel.
The ceremony ends when the groom – or sometimes groom and bride together- shatters a glass in memory of the Temple’s destruction.
A Jewish wedding in Florence requires documents be prepared before the wedding. Couples are always advised by the church administrator to hire their own wedding planner.
You can count on Brilliant Eventsto prepare all the necessary documents and to arrange the venue. Everything need to be ready before the wedding! With your professional wedding planner working for you, you will be able to relax all the way through and enjoy your unique Jewish wedding in Florence, Italy.
