Powered by GoogleDescription
Located in the Kaleiçi district of Edirne, it is the largest synagogue in Europe and the third largest in the world.
Story
The Edirne Great Synagogue was built between 1906 and 1909 by the decree of Sultan Abdülhamid II, after all 13 synagogues in Edirne were completely destroyed in a major fire in 1905. Designed by French architect France Depré, inspired by the Leopoldstädter Tempel in Vienna, the structure aimed to bring together the Sephardic and Ashkenazi communities. When the synagogue opened for worship in 1909, it gained the title of the largest synagogue in Europe and the third largest in the world. With the decrease in the Jewish population in Edirne, the building was abandoned in 1983 and remained idle for many years. However, in 2010, it was meticulously restored to its original state through a comprehensive restoration project initiated by the General Directorate of Foundations. After the restoration, which cost approximately 5 million Turkish Liras, it was reopened for worship and visits with a magnificent ceremony on March 26, 2015. Beyond being just a place of worship, the synagogue is an important symbol of Edirne's multicultural past and atmosphere of tolerance. The decorations, stained glass, and woodwork in its interior reflect the architectural features of the period. Today, it serves as both a place of worship and a center for cultural events.
Visit Tips
- Check visiting hours and days in advance.
- Dress appropriately when entering (shoulders and knees should be covered).
- Inquire if photography is permitted inside the synagogue.
- Allocate time to visit other historical sites in Edirne.
- You can join guided tours to learn about the history and architecture of the building.