Background

Helsinki Jewish Congregation

Discover the heart of Jewish culture in Finland at the Helsinki Jewish Congregation, a historic landmark fostering community and tradition.

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The Helsinki Jewish Congregation, located on Malminkatu Street, serves as a vital center for Jewish life in Finland. Established as a congregation around 1900, the Helsinki Synagogue was inaugurated in 1906 and is one of the northernmost synagogues in the world. The congregation provides a range of religious, cultural, and educational programs, fostering a strong sense of community.

A brief summary to Helsinki Jewish Congregation

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Call ahead to arrange a visit, ensuring access to the synagogue and community center. Tours are available Mon-Thu 11 am to 3 pm and only upon booking in advance.
  • Explore the small library within the synagogue, which contains books in Hebrew, English, and German.
  • Take a moment to reflect at the Holocaust memorial located in the backyard of the synagogue.
  • Note that the community office is closed on Jewish holidays and Finnish bank holidays.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Helsinki Central Station, take tram lines 7 or 9 towards the city center. Alight at the Simonkatu stop, which is a short walk to Malminkatu 26. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. A single AB zone ticket costs €3.20 and is valid for 80 minutes on trams, buses, and the metro. Tickets can be purchased via the HSL app or from ticket machines at the station.

  • Walking

    From the Kamppi Metro Station, walk north along Narinkkatori Square, then turn left onto Malminkatu Street. The Helsinki Jewish Congregation is located at Malminkatu 26, approximately a 5-minute walk. This is a straightforward and easily navigable route.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Helsinki Central Station to Malminkatu 26 typically costs between €10-€15 and takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi stands are available at the station, or you can use ride-sharing apps like Uber or local taxi services.

Unlock the Best of Helsinki Jewish Congregation

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Discover more about Helsinki Jewish Congregation

The Helsinki Jewish Congregation has a rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century with the arrival of Jewish soldiers in Finland. Officially established in 1919, the congregation adheres to Litvak orthodoxy. The Helsinki Synagogue, designed by architect Jac. Ahrenberg, was completed in 1906 and stands as a testament to the acceptance of the Jewish minority in Finnish society. Its architecture reflects an eclectic style common in 19th-century European synagogues, featuring a distinctive dome that has become a landmark in Helsinki. Inside the synagogue, visitors can admire the well-preserved interiors, including the bimah and a large chandelier. The building also houses offices, a small prayer room, and a library with books in Hebrew, English, and German. Adjacent to the synagogue is the Jewish community center, completed in 1961, which provides additional facilities such as an aged care facility, an auditorium, meeting rooms, and a mikveh. The community is known for its inclusivity, welcoming guests to events like Passover Seder. A Holocaust memorial in the synagogue's backyard serves as a poignant reminder of the past. The Helsinki Jewish Community is one of the most northern Jewish communities in the world. Today, the community continues to thrive, offering diverse activities and services to its members, maintaining a strong connection to Jewish traditions while integrating into Finnish society.

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