Posted by Great Synagogue Budapest – The largest synagogue in Europe: visitor information
The Dohany Street Synagogue, also called the Great Synagogue or Tabakgase Synagogue, is an important historical and cultural landmark in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. As the largest synagogue in Europe and one of the largest in the world, it attracts a steady stream of visitors from all over the world. The queues at the entrance are often long, so buy tickets online in advance. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you explore this iconic site:
Tickets Budapest Synagogue: Buy online. Tickets in advance to avoid long queues, The synagogue is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest with often very long queues. >>> There are online tickets on this link.
Location and directions: The Great Synagogue on Dohany Street is located at 2 Dohany Street in the 7th district of Budapest, centrally in the city about 500 meters east of the Danube. The M2 Astoria metro station is about 200 meters south of the Tabakgase Synagogue, as the Budapest Great Synagogue is also called. The trolleybus number 74 stops directly in front of the building.
Opening hours of the Budapest Synagogue (including the memorial and museums): In winter 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In summer the opening times are much longer (10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in high season). Saturday is a day of rest (i.e. closed all day), on Friday the synagogue closes earlier for visitors (around 4 p.m., in winter, as far as we know, at 2 p.m.).
Budapest Synagogue Tours: In order to gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of what is currently the second largest synagogue in the world, interesting tours are offered and are highly recommended. Tours mainly include visits to synagogues, museums and memorial gardens. The tours are included in the entrance fee to the synagogue. Tours last approximately 50 minutes. >>> Buy tickets online
Good video Synagogue Budapest (English, YouTube)
History and architecture:
Architecture: The Great Synagogue was built between 1854 and 1859 by the architect Ludwig Foerster in the Moorish style. The building was constructed as part of the expansion of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter.
Architectural style: The synagogue is a mixture of different architectural styles and combines Moorish, Romantic and Gothic elements. The exterior is decorated with intricate details such as horseshoe arches, Islamic-style turrets and ornate geometric patterns.
Interior: The interior is equally impressive, with a large central nave and galleries as well as the magnificent Ark of the Covenant where the Torah scrolls are kept. The Ark of the Covenant is decorated with beautiful ornaments and pillars.
Holocaust Memorial:
Memorial Garden: Next to the synagogue is the Holocaust Memorial, which commemorates the victims of Hungarian Jews during the Second World War. The “Tree of Life” monument designed by Imre Varga stands in the center of the garden.
Raoul Wallenberg Monument: Near the entrance is a monument dedicated to Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish diplomat who saved thousands of Jews during the Holocaust.
>>> Buy tickets for the Budapest Synagogue online
Jewish Museum:
Exhibits: The synagogue complex houses the Jewish Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts, documents and exhibits related to Jewish history and culture in Hungary.
Tree of Life Synagogue Museum: The synagogue houses a museum that focuses on Jewish religious traditions and the history of the synagogue itself.
Dress code: You must wear modest clothing when entering the synagogue. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees, so please no shorts even in summer.
Taking photos: Please note the rules for taking photos inside the synagogue, as there may be restrictions when taking photos inside the synagogue.
Caution: Be aware of the sacred nature of the site and the history contained within. Please visit us with cultural sensitivity and respect.
The Dohány Street Synagogue is not only a testament to Budapest’s rich Jewish heritage, but also a powerful reminder of the Jewish community’s resilience in the face of historical challenges. Exploring this landmark is a heartwarming and educational experience that offers insight into Hungary’s complex history.
