Congregation Chasam Sopher

Congregation Chasam Sopher is a Romanesque Revival synagogue on Clinton Street in Lower East Side, featuring rounded arches and decorative arcading in the brick walls. Inside, the restored Torah ark is accented with stained glass windows, and the building adjoins a small community garden.

The building dates from 1853, making it one of New York's oldest synagogue structures. The congregation itself formed in 1892 when two Polish immigrant communities merged.

The congregation preserves Orthodox Jewish traditions and practices that visitors can observe during services. The space serves as a religious and social center where the local Jewish community gathers regularly.

The building is easily accessible with most areas designed to accommodate visitors comfortably. Services and holiday celebrations happen regularly, so checking ahead for timing and special observances is helpful.

The name honors Rabbi Moshe Sofer, a notable Hungarian Jewish scholar, connecting this Lower East Side congregation to Central European Jewish traditions. This choice reflects the community's broader links to Jewish leadership beyond its Polish origins.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1892

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.72090,-73.98380

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:40