This is the oldest and the most beautiful synagogue in Istanbul. Its name comes from the destruction of a town in Macedonia (Ohrid). It has a community of 500 people and built before the conquest of Istanbul and has been open for worship since then.

It was built by Austrian originated Askenaz. It exhibits a different view than the more traditional Sefare and Romaniot synagogues with its European style façade, Polish influenced Ehal (a cupboard in which copy of the Old Testament hand written on parchments are saved) and Teva (pray pulpit).

Ortaköy is considered to be a typical Jewish settlement. After the Bedesten fire in 1618, and with its synagogue, church and mosque in a small triangular area, it became an example of how people of three religions were able to live in harmony and tranquility. The name Etz Ahayim means "Life Tree".

That is the name "Hemdat Israel" which means "the mercy of the sons of Israel" was inspired from the arabic words "Hamid" and "Hemdat" written on the synagogue as the sign of gratitude for Abdülhamit II. who had surpassed the chaos let by those who were against the construction of the synagogue.

Located at Balat and built and named by the people migrating from Yanbolu borough in Macedonia, the synagogue is the second ancient Jewsih structure of the region. The paintings on the ceiling of the synagogue are though to be depicting Yanbolu Borough.

It is at Galata, on Poet Ziya Paşa Slope. This synagogue, which is especially Italian and Austrian nationality holding Hebrews, who live in Ottoman Empire, begin to serve on 1886.

Name of the synagogue, means "Peace Oasis". This synagogue is still the most modern and magnificent synagogue of Istanbul, and witnessed a lot of religious ceremony, such as wedding, bar, mitzva (maturity ceremony) and funeral, or Head Rabbinate Appointment (Hahambaşılık İs'ad) ceremonies.

Located at Galata quarter and have been present from the 17th century, the current building of the synagogue belongs to 19th century. The synagogue is determined to be converted into "500 Years Tranquil Life Musuem" without any effect on the religious appearance of the structure.