Synagogue, Religious landmark in Lengnau, Switzerland
The synagogue in Lengnau is a 19th-century place of worship situated on elevated terrain with a clock tower and steeple. The structure incorporates architectural features that were mandated by Swiss authorities of that period.
The structure built between 1846 and 1849 replaced an earlier building from 1750 that followed a legal decision permitting Jews to construct religious buildings. The new construction reflected the stricter requirements of that era.
The building serves as a physical record of how Jewish communities worshipped in Switzerland during times of strict restrictions. Visitors can see how the structure itself reflects the legal requirements and social conditions that shaped religious life here.
Visitors can see the building through guided tours that must be arranged in advance with the local tourism office. It is helpful to check ahead since access times are limited.
The most striking feature is two separate entrance doors, a direct record of a rule that required spatial separation between Jewish and Christian residents. This architectural detail reveals how laws of that time were translated into building design.
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