Synagoge

In the charming town of Gelnhausen, nestled in the heart of Hesse, Germany, lies a historical gem that stands as a testament to the town's rich and tumultuous past – the Synagogue of Gelnhausen. This former synagogue, located on Brentanostraße 8-10, is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the resilience and enduring spirit of the Jewish community that once thrived here. Stepping into this sacred space is like stepping back in time, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of history, culture, and faith.

The Historical Tapestry of the Synagogue

The story of the Jewish community in Gelnhausen dates back to the 13th century. The first synagogue in Gelnhausen was mentioned in 1348, but the community faced a devastating blow during the Pestpogrom of 1349, which saw the tragic burning of all Jews in the town. Despite this dark chapter, the Jewish community showed remarkable resilience, re-establishing itself by 1352 with a new Judenschule (Jewish school) and by 1356, a Judengasse (Jewish alley) was in place. However, the community faced another expulsion in 1576, only to return again in 1599, supported by Count Philipp Ludwig II of Hanau-Münzenberg, who encouraged the settlement of Jewish communities for economic reasons.

The Building and Its Evolution

The current synagogue's story begins in the late 16th century when the Jewish community, having returned to Gelnhausen, likely constructed a new synagogue around 1601. This building, like much of the town, was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. In 1650, a new synagogue was erected, though little is known about its appearance. The structure we see today was built in 1734, either as a significant renovation of the 1650 building or as a new baroque construction, influenced by the architectural styles of Louis Remy de la Fosse, who was active in Darmstadt at the time.

The synagogue is a modest, yet elegant building made predominantly from local red sandstone from the nearby Spessart region. Its main facade is adorned with six arched windows, with an asymmetrical entrance that spans the width of two window bays. This simplicity in design belies the rich history and cultural significance contained within its walls. The building underwent extensive renovations in 1834, ensuring its continued use and preservation.

From Sacred Space to Cultural Landmark

The synagogue's history took a tragic turn in the 20th century. In 1938, under the increasing persecution of the Nazi regime, the Jewish community in Gelnhausen disbanded, selling the synagogue to an Aryan merchant. The sacred objects were transferred to the Jewish community in Frankfurt am Main, their fate unknown. The night of June 3-4, 1938, known as the Gelnhausen Kristallnacht, saw the windows of the synagogue and the Jewish community house shattered and the doors bricked up. By the November pogrom of 1938, no Jews remained in Gelnhausen, and the building was spared further destruction. However, the Jewish cemetery was desecrated, with several gravestones toppled.

Post World War II, the synagogue bore the scars of conflict, and the Jewish population in Gelnhausen was too small to restore the building to its original sacred function. In 1969, the property was sold to the Kreishandwerkerschaft, which planned to convert it into a workshop for apprentice automotive technicians. This plan, however, was delayed, and by 1973, the burgeoning monument preservation movement began to take an interest in the building. Despite a temporary setback in 1975, when surrounding structures were demolished for a parking lot, efforts to preserve the synagogue gained momentum.

Revival and Renewal

In 1981, the city of Gelnhausen purchased the synagogue with funds from the Lotto Hessen fund, and by 1983, extensive restoration work began. The Gelnhausen Historical Society, the city, and the state of Hesse pooled resources to finance the project. Despite a temporary halt due to funding shortages, the restoration was completed in 1986. Today, the former synagogue stands as a cultural center, hosting small concerts, exhibitions, and serving as a place of cultural exchange.

Visiting the Synagogue Today

A visit to the Synagogue of Gelnhausen is a journey through history. The building, now a cultural monument under the Hessian Monument Protection Act, offers a serene and reflective space where one can ponder the resilience of a community that endured centuries of persecution and upheaval. Just a few hundred meters southeast lies the well-preserved Jewish cemetery, another poignant reminder of the town's Jewish heritage.

The Synagogue of Gelnhausen is not just a relic of the past; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of a community and a beacon of cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of the past, a visit to this historical site will leave you enriched and inspired.