Temple Beth Zion

Temple Beth Zion is a synagogue made of limestone in Buffalo featuring ten scalloped walls that represent the Ten Commandments. The modern design incorporates two large stone tablets as interior focal points and uses natural light to create an open worship space.

The congregation was established in 1850 as an Orthodox Jewish community and shifted to Reform Judaism in 1863. This transformation made it the largest Jewish assembly in Western New York and shaped its role in the region's religious life.

The sanctuary displays stained glass windows created by artist Ben Shahn and houses a Judaic museum with rotating exhibitions. These elements reflect the congregation's commitment to preserving and sharing Jewish artistic and religious heritage with visitors.

The building is located on Delaware Avenue and can be easily reached by public transportation or car in downtown Buffalo. The synagogue welcomes visitors during posted hours and offers guided tours to learn about the architecture and community history.

A Casavant Freres organ with thousands of pipes fills the sanctuary with sound during religious services and special performances. This massive instrument is a rare example of French-Canadian organ building craftsmanship that visitors often overlook.

Location: Buffalo

Inception: 1966

Architects: Max Abramovitz

Architectural style: modern architecture

Capacity: 1000

Made from material: limestone

Website: https://tbz.org

GPS coordinates: 42.90630,-78.87180

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:59