Synagogue in Saint-Étienne

The synagogue is a house of prayer in Saint-Étienne organized around a central worship hall with the Torah ark positioned prominently at one end. The interior displays architectural details typical of Jewish religious spaces.

The original structure was built in 1880 by Alsatian Jews but faced serious structural problems decades later. In the 1960s, ground subsidence made demolition necessary, and a new community center took its place.

The congregation brings together people from diverse backgrounds, particularly North African Jews who arrived after the 1960s reconstruction. You can observe how different generations maintain their traditions and share their customs within this shared space.

The building is located on Rue d'Arcole and currently serves about 60 families through regular services and community events. As an active place of worship, visitors should be prepared to respect the customs and guidelines of this religious space.

During World War II, the Jewish population grew to about 500 as refugees arrived from Alsace-Lorraine and Germany seeking safety. This surge left a lasting mark on the community and continues to shape its character today.