Stadttempel
Discover the Rich Heritage of Stadttempel in Vienna
Stadttempel: Vienna's Hidden Synagogue
Discover the Stadttempel, Vienna's main synagogue, a hidden architectural gem and symbol of Jewish resilience, located in the heart of the city.
The Stadttempel, Vienna's main synagogue, is a significant historical landmark. Completed in 1826, its elegant Biedermeier design is hidden behind an apartment building, a testament to a time when only Roman Catholic places of worship could openly face the street. It is the only synagogue in Vienna to survive the Holocaust, making it a symbol of resilience for the city's Jewish community.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Stadttempel
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10 am-11 am
Tuesday
10 am-11 am
Wednesday
10 am-11 am
Thursday
10 am-11 am
Friday
10 am-11 am
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Getting There
Public Transport
The Stadttempel is easily accessible by public transport. From Stephansplatz, take the U1 or U3 U-Bahn line to Schwedenplatz. From there, it's a short walk to Seitenstettengasse. Alternatively, take tram lines 1 or 2 to Schwedenplatz and walk towards the U-Bahn. A single ticket for Vienna's public transport costs around €3. From Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station), take the U1 U-Bahn line towards Stephansplatz and get off at Schwedenplatz. The U-Bahn ride takes approximately 14 minutes and costs €3. From Vienna Airport (VIE), take the City Airport Train (CAT) to Wien Mitte. Then, transfer to the U4 U-Bahn line towards Heiligenstadt and get off at Schwedenplatz. The CAT ticket costs €15-€25 , while the U-Bahn ticket is around €3.
Walking
If you are in the Innere Stadt (Inner City) area, the Stadttempel is easily reachable on foot. Make your way to Graben street and turn onto Seitenstettengasse. Walk straight down Seitenstettengasse, and you will find the Stadttempel at number 4. The walk from St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) is approximately 5-10 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Vienna. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Stephansplatz) to the Stadttempel will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic. The base fare for taxis in Vienna is €3.80, with additional charges per kilometer. If taking a taxi from Vienna Airport (VIE) to the Stadttempel, expect to pay around €25-€31. It's advisable to book in advance and confirm the fare with the driver.
Parking
Parking near the Stadttempel is limited. Street parking is subject to fees and restrictions in the Innere Stadt (1st district) from 9:00 to 22:00 on weekdays (except public holidays). Several parking garages are nearby, including Parkhaus am Kai (Gonzagagasse 2-4) and Diana-Bad (Lilienbrunngasse 7-9). Hourly rates in these garages range from €2-€4. Be aware that parking can be challenging to find, especially during peak tourist season.
Local tips
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Remember to bring your passport or government-issued ID, as it's required for the mandatory security check before entering the Stadttempel.
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Dress modestly when visiting the Stadttempel. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Men are required to wear a Kippa (head covering), which is usually provided.
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Consider booking a guided tour in advance to fully appreciate the history and significance of the Stadttempel. Tours are available in multiple languages.
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Be aware that large bags, tripods, and food and beverages are typically not allowed inside the Stadttempel.
Discover more about Stadttempel
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.
A brief summary to Stadttempel
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