The Great Synagogue of Budapest, also known as the Dohány Street Synagogue, is not just a religious building—it’s a monument to Jewish heritage, resilience, and history. As the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, it stands as a testament to the deep-rooted Jewish culture in Hungary.
From its stunning Moorish Revival architecture to its memorials honoring Holocaust victims, the Great Synagogue is one of Budapest’s most significant landmarks. In this guide, we’ll take you through its history, architecture, and must-see features, helping you step into a powerful piece of history.
📜 The History of the Great Synagogue
🔹 The Birth of the Synagogue (1854–1859)
The Jewish community in Budapest grew significantly in the 19th century, and with it came the need for a grand place of worship. Construction of the Great Synagogue began in 1854 and was completed in 1859, becoming a center of Jewish life in Hungary.
Key Facts About Its Construction:
✔️ Designed by Ludwig Förster, a German architect known for his Oriental-inspired designs
✔️ Built in the Moorish Revival style, blending Middle Eastern and European influences
✔️ Capable of seating 3,000 worshippers, making it the largest synagogue in Europe
The synagogue wasn’t just a religious site; it was also a symbol of Jewish integration into Hungarian society during the 19th century.
⚠️ The Holocaust and the Darkest Days (1944–1945)
During World War II, the Jewish population of Budapest suffered horrific persecution at the hands of the Nazi-aligned Arrow Cross Party. The Great Synagogue and its surroundings were at the heart of the Jewish Ghetto, where thousands of Hungarian Jews were imprisoned before being sent to Auschwitz and other death camps.
💔 Tragic Events at the Synagogue During WWII:
❌ Used as a Nazi radio station and stable instead of a place of worship
❌ Thousands of Jews perished in the courtyard, where a mass grave now stands
❌ The synagogue fell into disrepair due to war damage
Today, the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park and the Holocaust Memorial Tree stand as powerful tributes to those who lost their lives.
🏛️ Architectural Beauty of the Great Synagogue
🔹 Moorish Revival Design: A Unique Blend of Cultures
The Great Synagogue’s design is one-of-a-kind, inspired by the architecture of North African and Middle Eastern mosques rather than traditional European synagogues.
✔️ Twin towers with golden domes – A striking Moorish feature
✔️ Red and yellow brick façade – Gives the building a warm, vibrant look
✔️ Intricate geometric patterns – Inspired by Islamic art
✔️ Massive rose window – Adds elegance and grandeur
Did You Know? The synagogue’s interior resembles a Catholic basilica rather than a traditional Jewish temple, featuring a central nave, balconies, and decorative frescoes.
🔍 What to See Inside the Great Synagogue
1️⃣ The Main Prayer Hall
💡 Must-See Features:
✔️ 3,000-seat capacity, making it the second-largest synagogue in the world
✔️ A majestic Torah ark with intricate golden details
✔️ Stunning chandeliers and painted ceilings
✔️ A giant organ, rare in synagogues, played by Franz Liszt in its early days
2️⃣ The Heroes' Temple
📍 Located next to the main synagogue, this smaller temple was built in 1931 to honor Jewish soldiers who fought for Hungary in World War I.
💡 Why It’s Important:
✔️ A tribute to Jewish-Hungarian patriotism
✔️ Still used for religious services today
✔️ Features stunning stained-glass windows
3️⃣ The Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park
Outside the synagogue, you’ll find this peaceful memorial garden dedicated to Holocaust victims.
💡 Must-See Memorials:
✔️ The Tree of Life 🌳 – A metal sculpture resembling a weeping willow, with the names of Holocaust victims engraved on each leaf
✔️ Raoul Wallenberg Statue – Honoring the Swedish diplomat who saved thousands of Jews
✔️ Mass Grave Site – A heartbreaking reminder of those who perished in the Jewish Ghetto
4️⃣ The Jewish Museum & Archives
Located within the synagogue complex, this museum preserves the history and culture of Hungarian Jews.
💡 Highlights:
✔️ Sacred Torah scrolls and religious artifacts
✔️ Photographs and documents from the Holocaust
✔️ Exhibits on Jewish customs, festivals, and traditions
🎟️ Visiting Information: Everything You Need to Know
⏰ Opening Hours
🕰️ The Great Synagogue is open daily, but closed on Saturdays for Shabbat.
📌 Best time to visit: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in summer months.
💰 Ticket Prices
🎫 Entrance Fee: Includes access to the main synagogue, museum, memorial park, and Heroes' Temple.
✔️ Adults: Around 10-15 EUR
✔️ Students & Seniors: Discounted tickets available
✔️ Guided Tours: Included in the ticket price
📍 Location & How to Get There
📍 Dohány Street 2, Budapest
🚇 Metro: Take M2 (Red Line) to Astoria Station
🚍 Tram & Bus: Several public transport options stop nearby
Pro Tip: Wear modest clothing when visiting as a sign of respect—men may need to wear a kippah, which is provided at the entrance.
🕍 Why the Great Synagogue is a Must-Visit in Budapest
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or culture, the Great Synagogue offers a profound experience that takes you through Hungary’s Jewish past and present.
✔️ Marvel at one of the most beautiful synagogues in the world
✔️ Learn about the Jewish community’s contributions to Budapest
✔️ Pay tribute to Holocaust victims at the moving memorial sites
The Great Synagogue isn’t just a place of worship—it’s a place of remembrance, education, and beauty.