Westend Synagoge

Westend Synagoge Frankfurt: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Frankfurt’s elegant Westend district, the Westend-Synagoge stands as a powerful symbol of Jewish heritage, resilience, and community life. As Germany’s largest surviving prewar synagogue, it represents more than a century of Jewish culture, endurance through the Nazi era, and ongoing renewal. The synagogue’s unique blend of Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) and Neo-Romanesque architecture, its richly decorated interiors, and its active communal role make it a must-visit historical and cultural landmark. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, guided tours, historical context, and tips for an enriching and respectful visit.

Introduction
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility, Getting There
Historical Overview
Architectural and Artistic Highlights
Cultural Significance and Community Life
Security and Visitor Protocols
Guided Tours and Special Events
Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips and FAQs
Contact, Further Resources, and Conclusion
Sources

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Days of Operation

General Opening: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Saturdays, Jewish holidays, and during religious services
Visits: Primarily via guided tours or prior arrangement due to security protocols and religious observances

Always verify visiting hours and book in advance, especially during holidays or special events (Jewish Community Frankfurt; Visit Frankfurt).

Tickets & Entry Fees

Entry: Free for individuals and most group visits; donations are encouraged to support maintenance and programs
Guided Tours: May require a small fee; booking in advance is essential
Booking: Contact the synagogue or Jewish Community Frankfurt for current details and reservations

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Barrier-free entrances and ramps available
Facilities: Adapted restrooms and accessible routes; some historic areas may have limited access
Assistance: Notify staff in advance for special accommodations

Getting There

Address: Freiherr-vom-Stein-Straße 30, 60323 Frankfurt am Main
Public Transport: U-Bahn (Westend or Bockenheimer Warte stations), tram lines 16/17 (Westend stop), bus lines 32/36
Parking: Limited street parking—public transportation is recommended

Historical Overview

Origins and Architecture (1908–1910)

The Westend-Synagoge was inaugurated in 1910 and designed by Franz Roeckle and Siegfried Kusnitzky, combining Neo-Romanesque and Jugendstil elements. Its imposing facade features a central dome, arched windows, and ornate stonework, while the interior dazzles with mosaics, stained glass, and symbolic motifs (Wikipedia; visitfrankfurt.travel).

Survival Through the Nazi Era

During Kristallnacht in 1938, the synagogue was vandalized but not destroyed, thanks in part to its proximity to other buildings and intervention by local firefighters. Throughout WWII, it was repurposed for municipal storage, sparing it from total destruction (Kultur Frankfurt).

Postwar Restoration and Preservation

Postwar restoration began in 1950, with ongoing renovations into the late 20th century. The synagogue was rededicated and remains Germany’s largest functioning prewar synagogue, a living memorial to Jewish endurance (Wikipedia).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Exterior Design

The synagogue blends Neo-Romanesque symmetry with Art Nouveau’s organic motifs. The pale Muschelkalk stone, central dome, and decorative portals create a monumental yet harmonious appearance (visitfrankfurt.travel).

Interior Layout

The sanctuary features a soaring dome, vibrant mosaics, and stained-glass windows by Hans Leistikow. The central bimah and galleries reflect traditional synagogue design, while the women’s balcony and historic organ are preserved features (synagogues-360.anumuseum.org.il).

Restoration and Innovation

Advanced construction techniques allowed for the synagogue’s wide, unobstructed interior. The structure survived wartime damage and was restored with attention to its original artistic details (Wikipedia; synagogues-360.anumuseum.org.il).

Cultural Significance and Community Life

The Westend-Synagoge is an active center for worship and Jewish cultural life in Frankfurt, serving a community of over 7,000 members. It hosts regular services, Jewish lifecycle events, and cultural programs such as Jewish Culture Week (Kultur Frankfurt).

The synagogue is also home to the Beth-Hamidrasch Westend (Stibl) and the Egalitarian Minyan, reflecting both traditional and modern practices (jg-ffm.de).

Symbolism and Interfaith Dialogue

Educational initiatives, guided tours, and cultural events promote interfaith understanding and remembrance, with projects like the Stolpersteine (stumbling blocks) commemorating Holocaust victims (Kultur Frankfurt).

Security and Visitor Protocols

Due to contemporary security concerns, all visitors must undergo ID checks and bag inspections. Advance registration is required. Security presence is visible but discreet, ensuring a safe environment without detracting from the welcoming atmosphere (stadtplanungsamt-frankfurt.de).

Dress Code and Conduct

Men: Head covering (kippah/yarmulke) required; provided at entrance
Women: Modest attire (covered shoulders and knees)
Behavior: Silence and decorum are essential inside the sanctuary; mobile devices should be silenced

Photography is generally prohibited inside, especially during services (Shunvogue).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided tours are available in German and, upon request, in English. These tours highlight the synagogue’s architecture, history, and community significance, often including:

The domed sanctuary and restored interiors
Women’s gallery and historical organ
Memorials related to Holocaust survival

School, group, and cultural tours must be booked well in advance (jg-ffm.de; Visit Frankfurt).

The synagogue also hosts lectures, concerts, and community events. For schedules, consult the Jewish Community’s event calendar or Visit Frankfurt’s listings.

Nearby Attractions

The Westend district offers several notable sites within walking distance:

Palmengarten: Renowned botanical garden
Senckenberg Museum: Major natural history museum
Goethe University Campus Westend: Modernist architecture
Jewish Museum Frankfurt and Museum Judengasse: Key sites for Jewish history (Jewish Museum Frankfurt)

Practical Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Practical Tips

Advance Booking: Required due to security protocols and limited access
Language: Tours are usually in German; request English when booking
Donations: Welcome and support synagogue upkeep
Combine Visits: Pair your synagogue visit with nearby museums or gardens

FAQ

Q: Can I visit without booking?
A: No, prior arrangement is necessary for all non-members.

Q: Are there ticket fees?
A: Most visits are free; guided tours may request a small fee or donation.

Q: Is the synagogue accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with some limitations in historic areas; notify staff if you need accommodations.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Generally not, especially during services.

Q: Can I attend religious services?
A: Visitors may attend with prior permission and adherence to guidelines.

Contact Information

Address: Freiherr-vom-Stein-Straße 30, 60323 Frankfurt am Main
Phone: +49 69 76 80 36 400
Website: Jewish Community Frankfurt – Synagogues
Tourism Info: Visit Frankfurt – Westend-Synagoge

Additional Resources

Summary & Final Tips

The Westend-Synagoge in Frankfurt is a testament to Jewish endurance, architectural brilliance, and cultural renewal. Visitors can experience its magnificent Jugendstil and Neo-Romanesque fusion, learn about its storied past, and appreciate its ongoing role in community and cultural life. To ensure a meaningful visit, plan ahead, respect synagogue protocols, and consider engaging with guided tours for deeper understanding. The synagogue’s strategic location also allows for an enriching exploration of Frankfurt’s Jewish and cultural heritage.

For the most current information, consult the official websites and download the Audiala app for audio guides and event updates. Follow relevant social media channels for news and cultural highlights.