Stockholm Synagogue, Stockholm

The Great Synagogue of Stockholm is a significant historical and architectural landmark in Sweden's capital. Constructed between 1867 and 1870, the synagogue was designed by the architect Fredrik Wilhelm Scholander, who envisioned the building as a "paraphrase over Oriental motifs." This design, characterized by its rectangular form and four towers—each containing a staircase—draws inspiration from the Biblical description of the ancient Temple of Jerusalem. The synagogue can accommodate up to 850 people, making it a central place of worship and gathering for Stockholm's Jewish community.

Beneath the synagogue lies the Jewish Community Library (Judiska Biblioteket). This library is home to a diverse collection of books in multiple languages, including Swedish, German, English, French, and Hebrew. It also houses the personal library of Rabbi Marcus Ehrenpreis, who served as Chief Rabbi of Sweden from 1914 to 1951. The library not only preserves these valuable texts but also hosts occasional exhibits and an annual series dedicated to the history of the Jewish people.

A poignant feature of the synagogue is the Holocaust Memorial, which is situated on the wall connecting the synagogue to the community hall. This memorial bears the names of over 8,000 Holocaust victims who were relatives of Swedish Jews. In 1998, King Carl XVI Gustav of Sweden officially dedicated the memorial, underscoring its national significance.

In 2017, a new mikvah, a ritual bath, was constructed in the synagogue's basement, further enhancing the building's religious facilities. The synagogue's interior is adorned with Hebrew inscriptions etched and painted into the stonework, adding to its spiritual and historical ambiance.

Recognized as one of Stockholm's most historic buildings, the Great Synagogue has been listed in the Swedish Registry of National Historical Buildings, reflecting its importance as a cultural and religious monument.