About the synagogue

New Synagogue of Szeged

The New Synagogue of Szeged is the second largest synagogue in Hungary and the fourth largest in Europe, built between 1900 and 1902 according to the plans of Lipót Baumhorn. It is considered the most significant and most beautiful work of Baumhorn, who designed 22 synagogues. It is an eclectic architectural style building, with Art Nouveau, Moorish-Arab-Mediterranean, Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque style elements.
The synagogue was inaugurated on May 19, 1903, exactly 60 years to the day after the inauguration of the old synagogue. The dome is 48.5 meters high, making it one of the most defining visual elements of the city. The interior is decorated with rich symbolism, depicting biblical motifs and Jewish symbols. The glass paintings on the windows and dome, made by Manó Róth (Miksa Róth's brother), are particularly beautiful. The light streaming in through the huge glass windows lends the space a changing atmosphere throughout the day. During World War II, the tragic fate of the local Jewish community almost completely destroyed the community, but the building survived and was later externally restored in 2017. Today, the New Synagogue of Szeged is not only the religious center of the remaining Jewish community, but also one of the most important cultural and tourist attractions of the city. Thanks to the building's excellent acoustics and 1,340 seats, it also regularly hosts classical music concerts. The building symbolizes the city's diverse cultural past, the former strength of the Jewish community and its contribution to the intellectual life of Szeged.