Located at 50 Roonstraße in Cologne, Germany, the Roonstrasse Synagogue is an Orthodox Jewish place of worship and the sole surviving synagogue of the five that stood in Cologne prior to the Nazi era. Visiting this historic site connects you to a Jewish community with the longest history in Germany, dating back to 321. The original Romanesque Revival style building, designed by architects Schreiterer & Below, opened in 1899.
After suffering severe damage during Kristallnacht in 1938 and further devastation in World War II, it was rebuilt under architect Helmut Goldschmidt and reopened in 1959. When you explore the site today, you will see minor exterior alterations alongside a simplified interior highlighted by leadlight windows created by Lammers & Warzager. Inside the reconstructed synagogue, you can gaze up at a vast blue dome.
Beyond its sacred space, the synagogue serves as the vibrant center of Cologne's Jewish community, housing a community center, a small exhibit featuring items connected to Cologne Jewry, and a kosher restaurant. Notable historical events include a 2005 visit by Pope Benedict XVI, who condemned Nazism and antisemitism during only the second papal visit to a synagogue in history.
What to see at Roonstrasse Synagogue
- The only surviving pre-Nazi era synagogue in Cologne, originally inaugurated in 1899
- Features a striking, vast blue dome inside the reconstructed interior
- Houses a small display showcasing items associated with Cologne Jewry
- Home to an on-site kosher restaurant and active community center
- Site of a historic 2005 visit by Pope Benedict XVI to condemn antisemitism
Visiting tips
Be sure to stop by the small display inside to view items associated with the rich history of Cologne Jewry.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Roonstrasse Synagogue is easy to reach on Cologne’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Wallraf–Richartz Museum and Cologne Central Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cologne travel guide.
See the full Cologne travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.