The Old Synagogue
The Old Synagogue, near the city centre, is an impressive architectural structure built of shell limestone. An imposing copper dome, reminiscent of the Jewish “Kippa” headdress, spans the building. The Old Synagogue was opened in 1913 and, similar to other Jewish places of worship, was set ablaze in the so called ”Reichspogromnacht” Night of Broken Glass in 1938. The interior suffered extensive damage. In 1959, the city of Essen acquired the former synagogue and renovation began. Over the course of the restoration many mosaics were painted over, the Torah shrine was destroyed and the dome which covered the main prayer hall, where once 1.400 people worshipped, was removed. Up until 1979 the sombre building was used for industrial design exhibits. A fire destroyed a part of the exhibition and the building was once again renovated. The original room structure was reconstructed but without the original details. Since 1988, the Old Synagogue has become a place of remembrance and is used for political and historical discussions and forums and as a cultural meeting place.
Steeler Straße 29, 45127 Essen-Citycentrephone +49 / (0) 201 / 88 45 218
www.alte-synagoge-essen.de
opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10.00 am-6.00 pm. Admission free