Ohel Jakob synagogue, Main synagogue at Sankt-Jakobs-Platz in Munich, Germany
Ohel Jakob Synagogue sits at Sankt-Jakobs-Platz and combines two distinct building materials: a solid stone base topped by a floating glass cube with metallic Star of David patterns. The building stands 28 meters tall and creates visual contrast through this combination of heavy base and light, transparent upper section.
The building opened in 2006, exactly 68 years after Munich's original synagogue was destroyed during the November pogroms of 1938. This timing was intentional and represents both remembrance of the past and the return of religious life to the site.
The synagogue serves as the main place of worship and gathering for Munich's Jewish community. It is where people come together for prayer and community events that shape their religious and social life.
Visitors can join guided tours in multiple languages that need to be arranged in advance. It's worth planning extra time to explore the underground memorial area during your visit.
Beneath the plaza runs an underground passage called Gang der Erinnerung (Passage of Remembrance) that serves as a memorial to roughly 4,500 Munich Jews who died during the Nazi period. This hidden space connects present-day religious life with remembrance of the victims in a subtle way.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
