A Jewish centre in the heart of Budapest
If you’re interested in the history of the Jewish people in the city, then you shouldn’t miss the Grand Synagogue, Budapest. It’s the second largest in the world, after New York’s, and can hold 3,000 people.
Our city tour will take you right past this wonderful building. With our Budapest hop-on hop-off tours, you can get off the bus here for a visit, or simply learn all about it from the informative on-board commentary.
The history of the Grand Synagogue
The Grand Synagogue was designed by Ludwig Forster to impress while still maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. We think you’ll agree he managed the balance well. Built between 1854 and 1859, it combines Jewish, Christian and Muslim influences. This reflects Budapest’s location in Europe and its multicultural history.
You’ll find there’s more to see than just the Grand Synagogue itself. Within the buildings and the courtyards are the Jewish Museum, the Heroes' Temple, the Jewish Cemetery and the Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park.
Other interesting facts about the Grand Synagogue, Budapest:
- At the Grand Synagogue’s inauguration, Franz Liszt played the organ that’s still in place today.
- During World War II, the Grand Synagogue was used as a stable and radio communication centre by the Germans
- The Memorial is a weeping willow tree with the names of Hungarian Jews killed during the Holocaust inscribed on each leaf
- The 2,000 people buried in the cemetery died in the Jewish ghetto during the winter of 1944-45
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The Grand Synagogue entry fee includes access to the Jewish Museum.
