Welcome to The Jerusalem Great Synagogue, an active Orthodox Jewish congregation located at 56 King George Street in Jerusalem, Israel. Whether you are visiting for reflection or cultural discovery, this grand sanctuary offers you a profound look into Jerusalem's spiritual heart, featuring services conducted in both Ashkenazi and Sephardic rites. The idea for a large central synagogue began in 1923 with Chief Rabbis Abraham Kook and Jacob Meir, eventually leading to this magnificent structure consecrated in 1982.
Main sponsor Sir Isaac Wolfson and his family dedicated the synagogue to honor the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust as well as the fallen soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces. When you step inside, you will notice the remarkable architecture designed by German-born architect Alexander Friedman, who modeled the building on the ancient Jewish Temple. As you explore the main sanctuary, which accommodates 850 men and 550 women, you can appreciate the history shaped by notable spiritual leaders and renowned cantors like Naftali Hershtik, Chaim Adler, Avraham Kirshenbaum, and Tzvi Weiss.
Before or after viewing the main worship space, be sure to inspect the lobby, where you will find an expansive, comprehensive private collection of mezuzah cases on display for visitors to admire.
What to see at The Jerusalem Great Synagogue
- Architecture modeled after the ancient Jewish Temple by architect Alexander Friedman
- Dedicated in memory of Holocaust victims and fallen IDF soldiers
- A comprehensive private collection of mezuzah cases displayed in the lobby
- Congregation worships in both Ashkenazi and Sephardic rites
- Main sanctuary accommodating 850 men and 550 women
Visiting tips
Be sure to allocate time in the lobby to view the comprehensive private collection of mezuzah cases on display.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Prayer service times
How to get there & what’s nearby
The Jerusalem Great Synagogue is easy to reach on Jerusalem’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Tower of David and Walls of Jerusalem. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Jerusalem travel guide.
See the full Jerusalem travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.