B'Nai Israel Synagogue

B'Nai Israel Synagogue is a Spanish Colonial Revival structure on South Main Street featuring a red painted metal dome and stuccoed brick walls throughout. The roof and exterior design create a clearly recognizable religious building in the city center.

The building was constructed in 1937 after an event prompted the Jewish community to build their first permanent place of worship. This construction represented an important milestone for the community to have a lasting location for their religious life.

The building displays Islamic design features with pointed horseshoe windows and decorative mosaic details across its exterior. These architectural elements remain visible and give the structure its distinctive appearance.

The building stands in a historic neighborhood district near the courthouse and is easily found by walking the area. Visitors can view the exterior architecture from South Main Street and explore the surroundings with other historic structures nearby.

The building is the only one in Cape Girardeau displaying Islamic design elements, making it a notable example of religious architecture. Its pointed arches and decorative mosaics set it apart from other religious structures in the area.

Location: Cape Girardeau

GPS coordinates: 37.30306,-89.51889

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:20