Szeged Synagogue

The Szeged Synagogue, or Szegedi zsinagóga as it is known in Hungarian, stands as a majestic testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Szeged, Hungary. This awe-inspiring edifice, completed in 1902, is not only one of the largest synagogues in Hungary but also one of the most beautiful, combining various architectural styles that create a harmonious and eclectic masterpiece.

The History of Szeged Synagogue

The history of the Szeged Synagogue is deeply intertwined with the history of the Jewish community in Szeged. Following the liberation of Szeged from Turkish rule in 1686, the city saw an influx of new settlers, including Jews. By 1786, the Jewish population had received official permission to settle in the city, and a vibrant community was established by 1791. The first synagogue was constructed between 1800 and 1803, but no traces of this initial building remain today.

As the Jewish population grew, a second synagogue was built in the 1840s, which still stands today as a cultural venue owned by the municipality of Szeged. However, by the end of the 19th century, the burgeoning Jewish community required a larger place of worship. In 1898, an architectural competition was held, and the plans of Hungarian architect Lipót Baumhorn, a prominent figure in synagogue architecture, were selected. The construction of the new synagogue began in 1900 and was completed in 1902.

Architectural Splendor

The Szeged Synagogue is an architectural marvel, blending a variety of styles in a unique and captivating way. The building is 48 meters long, 35 meters wide, and 48.6 meters high, with an interior height of 32 meters. The structure's eclectic style features Byzantine elements in the dome, Romanesque columns, Gothic starry vaults above the organ, and a Baroque exterior dome, all unified by a harmonious color scheme of beige, blue, and gold.

The internal metal framework, a novel construction technique at the time, allows for the grand scale and intricate design of the synagogue. The grand rabbi Immánuel Löw played a significant role in the synagogue's design, contributing to the floral motifs and biblical symbols that adorn the interior. His vision was to create a space that inspired faithfulness to high ideals and generosity.

Interior Highlights

The interior of the Szeged Synagogue is a feast for the eyes, with its stunning dome being one of the most striking features. The dome symbolizes the world, with 24 columns representing the hours of the day and the books of the Old Testament. The wild rose bush above symbolizes Revelation, creating an impression of infinite space adorned with flowers and starry blue glass.

The stained glass windows, crafted by master glassmaker Miksa Róth, depict significant episodes from Jewish history up to the synagogue's construction. Above the main entrance, a window shows the old synagogue and a boat, symbolizing the great flood of 1879, alongside the new synagogue inaugurated in 1902.

The Holy Ark and Prayer Hall

The Holy Ark (Aron Kodesh) is another jewel of the synagogue, inspired by the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Its white and gold decorations contrast beautifully with the blue of the choir. The Ark's doors are made of sittim wood from the Nile, with hinges shaped like hyssop branches, symbolizing humility and purity. The Ark houses 18 Torah scrolls, each adorned with exquisite velvet coverings.

In front of the Ark is the marble prayer table (bimah) from Jerusalem, and above it, the eternal light (ner tamid) now powered by solar cells. Bronze candelabras flanking the Ark resemble those from the Temple of Jerusalem, with the central pair gilded and decorated with semi-precious stones.

The Organ and Entrance Hall

Behind the Holy Ark stands the grand organ, built by Lipót C. Wegenstein of Timișoara and restored in 2001. The organ, with 2,317 pipes, 42 registers, and two keyboards, is used for both liturgical purposes and concerts, taking advantage of the synagogue's remarkable acoustics.

The entrance hall serves as a poignant memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, with marble plaques inscribed with the names of the 6,600 Jews from Szeged who were deported during World War II, of whom fewer than 1,000 survived. The hall also commemorates Jewish martyrs from the Vojvodina region and Kistelek, with black coffins honoring the most vulnerable victims: children and the elderly. The synagogue itself was part of the Szeged ghetto and later used to store confiscated Jewish property during the war.

A Living Monument

Today, the Szeged Synagogue stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage. It continues to serve the Jewish community and welcomes visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its architectural beauty and reflect on its historical significance. Each June, a multi-faith commemoration is held to remember the 1944 deportations, ensuring that the memories of those who suffered are never forgotten.

In conclusion, the Szeged Synagogue is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Szeged. Its architectural splendor, rich history, and poignant memorials offer a profound and moving experience, making it an essential part of Hungary's cultural and historical landscape.