New Synagogue Berlin, Synagogue in Berlin-Mitte, Germany
The New Synagogue is a house of worship in Moorish style located in Berlin-Mitte, now serving mainly as a museum and memorial. Front facade sections with brick and glass mosaics flank the main entrance, above which a golden dome rises.
Eduard Knoblauch designed the building starting in 1859, while Friedrich August Stüler completed the work after Knoblauch's death in 1865. Bombing during World War Two and subsequent demolition of damaged sections left only the facade and front rooms standing.
The building earned its name in the mid-19th century when the Jewish community needed a larger house of worship than the existing prayer rooms in the city. Today the structure serves as an exhibition and memorial site, while only a small section is used for services.
Access to the dome gallery requires climbing several flights of stairs, so visitors should wear sturdy footwear. Those planning a tour will find temporary presentations on Jewish history in Berlin alongside the permanent exhibition.
During Kristallnacht, Lieutenant Otto Bellgardt of the local police precinct ordered the arsonists to disperse, declaring the building a protected landmark and drawing his pistol so the fire brigade could extinguish the fire. His superior Wilhelm Krützfeld later shielded him and is often mistakenly named as the rescuer.
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