Great Synagogue, Jewish temple in Sydney, Australia

The Great Synagogue occupies a heritage-listed building at 187a Elizabeth Street, extending through to Castlereagh Street opposite Hyde Park. Its Elizabeth Street frontage and towers are of Pyrmont stone, with a five-storey addition behind the original Beadle's residence at the Castlereagh end. The interior has a ladies' gallery, moulded plaster, carved timber and stained glass with abstract patterns.

Built to unite the York Street and Macquarie Street congregations, the synagogue was designed by Cornish-born architect Thomas Rowe, chosen in 1872 by limited competition. John Solomon bought the Elizabeth Street land at auction for £2,000 in 1871; Saul Samuel laid the foundation stone on 26 January 1875, and the building was consecrated on 4 March 1878, with decoration finished in 1883.

The congregation, about 550 families, is the oldest in Sydney's Jewish community; its Chief Minister is traditionally regarded as a primary representative of Judaism to the wider community. A professional choir sings on Shabbat and Festival mornings and at some evening services. The AM Rosenblum Jewish Museum, founded in May 1982, holds early records and ceremonial objects, and the Falk Library hosts weekday services.

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 building is often called Australia's "cathedral synagogue", yet it is no longer the largest in Sydney: the Central Synagogue in Bondi Junction is bigger. Its Elizabeth Street frontage and towers are of Pyrmont stone, while the rest of the early structure is brick with cast-iron columns, timber floors and a slate roof.