New Synagogue Berlin
Construction of the Neue Synagogue took place between 1859 and 1866. The design was by Eduard Knoblauch designed the synagogue, but he took ill before it was complete. One of Berlin's prominent architects, Friedrich August Stuler took over and saw the project to its completion.
Today the gleaming golden dome atop the Neue Synagogue is a prominent Berlin landmark.
The Neue Synagogue Berlin was such a beautiful historic building, that even when it was set on fire on the night of November 9th, 1938, a night when synagoges throughout Germany were being torched, the head of the police precinct, Wilhelm Krützfeld, was not about to stand by and let this historical building be destroyed. He withdrew his side arm and ordered the mob to disperse so the fire brigade could put the fire out.
Unfortunately the bombing that followed later in World War II all but destroyed the Neue Synagogue. Because it was a safety hazard, City officials had the main hall leveled in 1958. This left just the front facade standing as a memorial and reminder against fascism and war.
In 1988 a foundation was established to restore the facade and the dome. Restoration began in 1991 and it reopened to the public as "Centrum Judaicum" ("Jewish Center") complete with a museum in 1995. The larger main hall located behind the restored building was not restored, but stones were set in the ground outlining its immense size and providing a reference to the destruction that too place.
The permanent exhibition called "Open ye the Gates" documents the history of the building and the lives of those associated with it.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: There is a small fee to attend the museum and go inside the dome.Stiftung Neue Synagoge Berlin - Centrum Judaicum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Address: Oranienburger Str. 28-30, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Phone: 030 88028300
Official Website: Stiftung Neue Synagoge Berlin - Centrum Judaicum
Stiftung Neue Synagoge Berlin - Centrum Judaicum Reviews
Rated out of 5
Just visited the New Synagogue Berlin - Centrum Judaicum and it was a profound experience. This place isn't just about stunning architecture, though the building itself, with its golden dome, is absolutely breathtaking. It's a deep dive into history, culture, and resilience. Walking through, you feel a connection to the stories and lives of the Jewish community in Berlin.
The exhibitions are thoughtfully presented, offering insights into a rich cultural heritage and the challenges faced over the years.
The atmosphere is one of reverence and reflection, making it a meaningful visit for anyone interested in understanding more about Jewish history and culture. While it's a popular spot, the space is so well managed that it allows for personal reflection.
Highly recommend a visit for a moving and educational experience.
Vlad Burca - 6 months ago
Interesting and important topic, however the museum is quite small, and you cannot visit the dome. Not much to see, and all the information that are found inside are rather known, expect some personal stories. The Synagogue was destroyed and never rebuild, the part that has been is rather new and unimpressive.
Zoran Lazić - a month ago
The New Synagogue Berlin should not be missed. A visit to this site is a strong reminder of the hate of yesterday and the continued hate today that one may experience. The visit is full of joy in what has been restored and disappointment in knowing what was not restored.
The strange thing is the reliance on photography to remind us of the past contrasted with the restriction of no photography allowed within the Synagogue during your visit. The irony is striking.
Jeffrey Kraskin - 10 months ago
Very interesting exhibition inside, lots of information. Heavy heart. I'm glad I was able to show my 10 year old the Synagogue and the history.
Anja Moore - a year ago
Staff are really friendly and helpful, but there's quite a strong armed police presence and you have to pass through airport-style security to get in (I get that this is not their fault). Fairly cheap museum.
Aloysius Ventham - a month ago
Directions
How to get to Stiftung Neue Synagoge Berlin - Centrum Judaicum by U-Bahn, S-Bahn or Tram
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or Tram Line(s): S1, S2, S25, M1, M5, U6
Nearest U-Bahn, S-Bahn or Tram Station(s): Berlin Oranienburger Straße, Oranienburger Tor
From Oranienburger Tor on the U-Bahn, exit to the north and go walk right (toward the Fernsehturm TV Tower) along Oranienburger Straße the New Synagogue Berlin is about a 6 minute walk.
From Berlin Oranienburger Straße on the S-Bahn or Tram, the New Synagogue Berlin is just to your east on Oranienburger Straße.
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Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: CarlosPacheco - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: CarlosPacheco - cc license via Flickr
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