Great Synagogue

Australia's oldest synagogue (1878) in central Sydney – a magnificent heritage-listed building.

The Great Synagogue at 187 Elizabeth Street is the oldest and most significant synagogue in Australia. Built between 1875 and 1878 in the Egyptian Revival style, it impresses with its striking towers, grand portico and magnificent interior featuring gilded decorations and sweeping galleries. Plans were drawn up as early as 1874 at the initiative of Sydney's Jewish community, which was then among the wealthiest in the British Empire. The building is heritage-listed and considered one of the most important Victorian-era religious structures in Australia. Guided tours offer visitors a window into the history of the Australian Jewish community.