Budapest Attractions
Great Synagogue, Budapest © Civertan Grafikai Stúdió
The Great Synagogue and Jewish Museum
Situated within Erzsébet Town, the charming old Jewish
quarter and former ghetto, the Great or Central Synagogue is the
largest in Europe and the second largest in the world, able to seat
3,000 people. Completed in 1859 the style is typically
Byzantine-Moorish, with exquisitely patterned brickwork in the red,
blue and yellow colours of the city’s coat of arms. Gilded
domed towers, archways and beautiful window designs are just some
of the features that make this one of Budapest’s landmarks.
The splendid interior glitters with lights; gilded arches and
balconies line the walls, the ceiling is covered in Stars of David,
and the floor is tiled in decorative stars. On Jewish festivals it
is packed with Jews from all over Hungary who come to celebrate
within its splendour. Next door is the Jewish Museum containing
relics from the Hungarian Jewish Community, including religious
objects from festivals, and the Holocaust Memorial room. In the
courtyard is the Holocaust Memorial in the shape of a weeping
willow tree, each metal leaf engraved with the names of Nazi
victims.
Address: Dohány utca 2-8 in VII district. Situated at an angle to Károly körút, between Deák tér and Astoria;
Telephone: +36 1 317 2754;
Transport: Metro line 2 to Astoria. Synagogue is a short walk from there. Bus no.7 or 7A. Tram no.47 or 49;
Opening time: In Summer, Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday from 10am to 3pm. In Winter, Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday from 10am to 2pm.. ;
Admission: Synagogue and museum 1400Ft (concessions available)
