Visit the hidden Ortodox Synagogue in Budapest

Budapest’s Jewish district’s most famous landmark is the Great Synagogue, being the biggest of its kind in Europe. However, there are lesser known hidden ones worth discovering. Some are even so secret and small that only the local jewish community will know about its whereabouts.

The Ortodox Synagogue is located in the middle of Kazinczy utca, just a stone’s throw away from the ruin bar Szimpla.  Again, a beautiful example of the Jewish districts past and contemporary history!

It was built in 1912, and was seriously destroyed in the World War II. You can see the damage done on an old photo hung inside the main hall. The community building complex includes the synagogue, a house of worship, headquarters, a kindergarten, a Talmud school, a butcher and bath (mikveh).

Looking a little bit like a fort from outside, indoors you can admire the vibrant colours and playful motifs so typical for Hungarian Art Nouveau. You can also fine stained glass windows from the Hungarian master of this craft, Miksa Róth.

Photo: wikipedia.hu

You can buy a ticket to enter at the front door and there is no official guiding, unless you start asking many questions to the guard, on a lucky day they will let you in their world and tell about their community.

Visiting hours:

• Sunday-Thursday: 10-16
• Friday: 10-13
• Saturday: closed for Sabbath