Københavns Synagoge (Great Synagogue of Copenhagen)

A hidden sanctuary in the middle of old Copenhagen

Københavns Synagoge sits discreetly on Krystalgade in the heart of the old city, its façade set slightly back from the line of houses as an echo of a time when Jewish life was allowed, but not encouraged, to be visible. Built between 1830 and 1833, it became the main synagogue for Copenhagen’s Jewish community and still serves as its central place of worship. Stepping through the gate feels like entering a self‑contained world, where layered history is held behind sober brick walls. The building replaced earlier synagogues that had either been tucked into private homes or destroyed by fire in the late 18th century. Its construction followed a royal decree that finally granted Jews the same civil rights as other citizens in 1814, marking a turning point from toleration to formal equality. As such, the synagogue is as much a monument to religious freedom and integration as it is a house of prayer.

Neoclassical lines with Egyptian flourishes

Architect G.F. Hetsch gave the synagogue a neoclassical structure, with clean lines and a near‑square ground plan, but enriched it with a distinctive blend of oriental and Egyptian Revival details. The façade, framed by pilasters and a restrained cornice, is animated by a rhythm of twelve columns symbolising the twelve tribes of Israel. These symbolic pillars turn a relatively modest frontage into a quietly eloquent statement of identity. Inside, the main hall is laid out as a basilica with a high central nave and two narrower side aisles. Octagonal columns separate the spaces and support galleries and a richly patterned coffered ceiling, chosen instead of the barrel vault the congregation originally requested. At the eastern end, the eye is drawn to the elevated ark and its cornice with Egyptian‑inspired forms, crowned by Hebrew inscriptions that remind worshippers "know before whom you stand".

Gendered seating and liturgical space

The interior layout reflects Orthodox tradition. The men’s section occupies the floor of the central space, while women sit on the side galleries and on the west‑end balcony, maintaining a visual connection while respecting gender separation. This vertical arrangement gives the room a layered, intimate feel even under the high ceiling. At the heart of the liturgy stands the bimah, an estrade with an altar‑like reading desk from which the Torah is chanted and the cantor leads the prayers. Behind it, steps rise to the ark where Torah scrolls are housed. Decorative painting, warm tones and filtered daylight combine to create a solemn yet welcoming atmosphere, especially during festivals when the hall is filled with song.

Stories of resilience and protection

The synagogue’s history mirrors key chapters of Danish‑Jewish experience. During the Second World War, Torah scrolls were secretly moved for safekeeping to a nearby church, a small but telling episode in the wider story of how many Danish Jews were helped to escape persecution. Later, the building endured politically motivated attacks, including a bombing in the 1980s, yet remained structurally intact and in continued use. Its status as a listed building underlines its cultural importance within Denmark’s architectural and religious landscape. Renovation campaigns in the 20th and 21st centuries have carefully restored original details while upgrading the fabric so the synagogue can continue to function as both a living congregation and a historical monument.

Visiting today: atmosphere and access

Today, Københavns Synagoge welcomes visitors on limited weekday tours, typically in the late morning and early afternoon, outside of major religious holidays and security‑sensitive periods. Entry is usually free or modestly priced, but advance registration and ID checks are common due to security requirements. The experience focuses on architecture, ritual objects and the broader story of Jewish life in Copenhagen. Inside, you can expect a calm, contemplative ambience: the muted sound of the city, the creak of wooden pews, the play of light on painted columns and Hebrew lettering. Visits are generally seated and guided rather than self‑led wanderings, giving time to absorb the space. Modest dress and respectful behaviour are essential, and photography rules vary and are set by the community.

A compact stop in a dense historic quarter

The synagogue lies within walking distance of major central sights, yet feels slightly apart due to its recessed position and gated forecourt. Most visits last under an hour, making it an easy stop to combine with nearby museums, churches and university buildings. Mobile reception is typically strong, but once you step inside the sanctuary, the atmosphere encourages you to disconnect and focus on the architecture, stories and quiet continuity of worship that has carried on here for nearly two centuries.