Pretoria Great Synagogue, Historic synagogue in central Pretoria, South Africa
Pretoria Great Synagogue is a building with horseshoe arches, ornate wrought iron gates, and corner turrets positioned on Paul Kruger Street. A central lantern tower rises from the roof and forms its most prominent feature.
The building was completed in 1897 and displays architectural style from that era. It became the first permanent Jewish house of worship in Pretoria and shaped the community's religious life from that point forward.
The interior reveals religious symbols and design choices made for the Jewish community to gather and worship. These features tell the story of how the space has served its congregation over many generations.
Access is from Paul Kruger Street, where the original cast iron fence remains in place. Visitors should be aware that this is an active religious site and conduct themselves respectfully.
The government granted the land for this synagogue, giving the community official recognition. This gesture made it a landmark moment in establishing a permanent Jewish presence in the city.
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