Places of Interest in Vienna

City Temple (Stadttempel/Synagoge)

Seitenstettengasse 4, A-1010 Wien, Tel: 53104-15, U-Bahn: Schwedenplatz

The City Temple was erected in 1826, though because of draconian anti-Jewish building restrictions in force at the time, had to be hidden from street view. Because of this, however, the Synagogue escaped serious damage during the Nazi period, whereas many other Synagogues were put to the torch and destroyed during the Kristallnacht pogrom of November 1938.

Designed by Josef Kornhäusel in a neo-classical style, the impressive central dome - with gold stars set against a blue background - makes use of additional artificial light to create a very tranquil effect. Certainly you get a feeling of the heavens being supported by ionic columns.

The City Temple is still very much a focal point of Jewish life in Vienna today. Visitors should note that because of the ongoing situation in the Middle-East, security in and around the Synagogue is heavy and passports are required as part of the entry procedures. Discount entry with a Vienna Card (with free guided tour if entry to the Jewish Museum purchased).

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