The Synagogue in Enschede

19 / 03 / 2008 | Redactie

Prinsestraat, a quiet street not far from Enschede city centre, is home to one of the most beautiful synagogues in Western Europe. This synagogue, designed by the architect Karel P.C. de Bazel, was completed in the year 1928. Ironically, de Bazel did not live to see his creation take shape — he died in 1923. Rather miraculously, the synagogue survived the Second World War relatively unscathed and in 2004, after an extensive, full-scale restoration, it was reopened to the public. Even though the Jewish population of Enschede has dwindled to less than 100 at present, this state monument still stands true to the meaning of the word synagogue, which is of Greek origin— it continues to serve as a meeting place and as a place to study and pray.

Perhaps the most striking feature of the synagogue is its domes— a large dome, crowning the main hall, is flanked by many smaller domes. All the domes have copper roofing. It is refreshing to see a rather unique combination of the domes inspired by the architecture of the Near East and the brickwork that is typically Dutch. The interior of the synagogue is serene and is loaded with symbolism. The numbers 3, 4, 7, 10 and 12 have special significance in Judaism, and de Bazel has used these numbers— as well as their sums and products —quite extensively in the design of the synagogue. The symbolization of the 12 tribes of Israel in mosaic is one such example. The stained glass windows, symbolic in meaning, add to the mystique of this place.

All in all, this synagogue has something for everyone—may it be history buffs, theologians or casual visitors. Every Wednesday and Sunday (except for Jewish holidays), from 11:00am-5:00pm , the synagogue is open to the public. On Sundays, there are hour-long excursions, during which a guide tries to shed light on the meaning of Judaism and the history of the synagogue, for a small fee of €2.00 per person. On top of this fee, there is also an entry fee of € 3.00 for students and € 3.50 for adults. Group bookings are possible as well. The guided tour is in Dutch, but the staff of the synagogue can converse comfortably in English.

Practical information: The synagogue is located on the Prinsestraat 18, Enschede. Contact by telephone: 053-4324507 or to learn more about specific tours, click-on this useful web link: www.synagoge-enschede.nl (available in Dutch, English and German).