Great Synagogue

The Great Synagogue in Sydney combines Gothic, Romanesque, Byzantine, and Moorish architectural elements into a distinctive house of worship in the city center. The interior holds space for thousands of visitors and displays detailed craftsmanship in plaster, wood, and stone throughout.

Construction finished in 1878 under architect Thomas Roe and marked the first major house of worship for Australia's Jewish community. The project reflected the community's desire to establish a permanent place in the city.

The congregation gathers here for regular worship while opening the doors to interfaith events that bring together people from different backgrounds. This practice makes the building a meeting place that extends beyond the Jewish community.

The building sits centrally between Elizabeth Street and Castlereagh Street with views toward Hyde Park. Visitors should check in advance whether tours or open visits are available, as regular services take place throughout the week.

The five towers of the building symbolize the five books of the Torah and can be spotted from many points across the city. This design choice often goes unnoticed by visitors but makes the structure a visual landmark that extends far beyond its immediate surroundings.

Location: New South Wales

Inception: 1874

Architects: Thomas Roe

Architectural style: Gothic Revival, Romanesque Revival architecture, Byzantine Revival architecture, Moorish Revival architecture

Capacity: 1600

Address: 187a Elizabeth Street, Sydney, Austrálie

Website: http://greatsynagogue.org.au

GPS coordinates: -33.87265,151.20947

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00