Belgrade Synagogue

Located in downtown Belgrade, Serbia, the Belgrade Synagogue—officially known as the Sukkat Shalom Synagogue—is an Orthodox Jewish house of worship and the only functioning synagogue in the country. Designated as a national heritage site in 2013, this historic location serves as a vital testament to the enduring presence of Belgrade's Jewish community, which dates back to the 16th century under Ottoman rule. Originally built for the Ashkenazi community, its cornerstone was laid in 1924 with a charter signed by King Alexander and Queen Maria, and construction finished in 1926.

Designed in an academic style featuring predominant Neo-Renaissance elements, the multi-purpose building historically housed worship, educational, office, and living spaces. After being desecrated and used as a brothel during the Nazi occupation in World War II, it was restored post-war to serve both Sephardic and Ashkenazi congregations. When you visit, you will see a well-balanced front façade adorned with round-arched windows, twin end towers, a central staircase referencing French neoclassicism, and a gable displaying a star of David.

Inside, the prayer hall features a coffered ceiling, columns, and an ornate aron hakodesh holding Torah scrolls.

What to see at Belgrade Synagogue

• The only functioning synagogue in Serbia and a declared national heritage site
• Designed in the academic style with distinct Neo-Renaissance architectural elements
• Features twin end-bay towers symbolizing Jachin and Boaz, the pillars of Solomon's Temple
• A majestic interior prayer hall with two rows of columns and a floral-bordered coffered ceiling
• Houses an ornate aron hakodesh that enshrines both Ashkenazi and Sephardic Torah scrolls

Visiting tips

Keep in mind that the synagogue is set back in the rear of the lot, so it is not fully visible directly from the street level.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Belgrade Synagogue is easy to reach on Belgrade’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Bajrakli Mosque and National Theatre in Belgrade. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Belgrade travel guide.