Stadttempel, Neoclassical synagogue in Innere Stadt, Austria
Stadttempel is a neoclassical synagogue in Vienna's Innere Stadt district, featuring an oval interior space defined by twelve Ionic columns. A two-level women's gallery sits beneath a central dome that receives light through a roof lantern above.
Construction took place between 1824 and 1826 in response to Emperor Joseph II's decrees that required non-Catholic religious buildings to be concealed from public view. The building was deliberately integrated into residential structures to remain hidden from the street.
The synagogue serves as a gathering place for the Jewish community of Vienna to hold religious services and important ceremonies. Visitors can experience how the community maintains its traditions and cultural practices within this central location.
Access requires advance planning since visitors must pass through security screening before entering. The location is tucked discreetly among residential buildings, so allow time to find the precise address on Seitenstettengasse.
This is the only Jewish house of worship in Vienna that survived World War II intact, protected by its clever integration within surrounding residential buildings. This hidden placement safeguarded the building during a period when many other religious sites were destroyed.
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