The Budapest synagogue tour is one of the top 10 most visited attractions in Budapest. It is a complex that includes the Great Synagogue, Heroes’ Temple, Jewish Cemetery and Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park. The main hall of prayer is a magnificent sight and a real must see for all visitors. But there is much more to explore at the site.

Your guide will take you to the most interesting places within the Great Synagogue. You will learn about the Jewish community of Budapest, its life, traditions and culture. You will also hear about the history of the building and its significance for Judaism in the city. Moreover, you will be able to ask your guide questions about the current religious life of Jews in Hungary (both secular and spiritual), about the former and present position of Jewish culture in Hungarian cultural space, about the role of Jewish women, about the special clothing (kippah and yarmulke) as well as about circumcision, kosher food, and the process of “de-chametzing”.

Budapest Synagogue Tour: A Journey Through History

The main part of the Great Synagogue was built between 1854 and 1859. Its design is based on Moorish Revival architecture with Byzantine, Romantic and Gothic elements. It is the largest synagogue in Europe. It can seat up to 3000 seated and 2000 standing people. The interior is adorned with beautiful and gilded details, a grand organ and an impressive Torah ark.

The Great Synagogue was heavily damaged during WWII, but it survived, unlike many other Jewish buildings in the city. It was reconstructed between 1991 and 1996.