Stadttempel, Vienna Travel Guide

The Stadttempel, also known as the Seitenstettengasse Temple, stands as a testament to Vienna's rich Jewish history and the community's enduring spirit. Constructed between 1824 and 1826, the synagogue's location at Seitenstettengasse 4 in the Innere Stadt (1st district) reflects a unique period in Viennese history. Due to an edict issued by Emperor Joseph II, it was built within a block of houses and concealed from public view, as only Roman Catholic places of worship were allowed to have facades directly on public streets.The synagogue was designed by Josef Kornhäusel, who was well-known for his work on prominent buildings such as the Theater in Josefstadt. The interior design evokes a Viennese theater, with floral gold themes, a gallery, stage, platform, parquet flooring, and lodges. The oval sanctuary features twelve Ionic columns supporting a two-tiered women's gallery. The Bimah (pulpit) and lectern are at the center. The Stadttempel's innovative design served as a model for synagogues throughout Western Europe.The Stadttempel holds a unique place in history as the only synagogue in Vienna to survive Kristallnacht in November 1938. The adjacent buildings prevented the Nazis from burning it down. Following World War II, the synagogue was repaired and rededicated. In 2002, a memorial site was opened in the foyer to commemorate the 65,000 Austrian Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust. Today, the Stadttempel remains the main synagogue of Vienna and a vibrant center for Jewish life, hosting weekly Shabbat celebrations, Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies, weddings, and other Jewish holidays.