Great German Synagogue

The Great German Synagogue, located in the New Ghetto of Venice, is one of the oldest and most significant synagogues in the city. Founded in 1528 by the Ashkenazi Jewish community, it represents a precious testimony to the historical and cultural importance of German Jews in Venice. The architecture of the synagogue reflects the stylistic elements of Venetian Renaissance, with a simple external aesthetic that contrasts with the decorative richness of the interiors. The facade of the synagogue is characterized by five large arched windows in white stone, an elegant motif that stands out among the surrounding buildings. Above the entrance portal, a Hebrew inscription reads “Beth ha-keneset ha-ghedolà keminag aschenazì”, which means “great synagogue according to the German rite”, clearly indicating the Ashkenazi origin of the community that built it. This external sobriety, imposed by the restrictions of the Republic of Venice, hides the beauty of the interiors, a perfect example of the discretion with which Jewish places of worship were built at that time. Inside, the synagogue has an irregular plan, a result of the need to adapt the space to a pre-existing building. Originally, the bimah, the platform from which the Torah is read, was located in the center of the hall, but was later moved to the north end of the sanctuary. The Holy Ark, where the Torah scrolls are kept, is a work of art, finely carved and decorated, projecting scenically over the canal behind. The interior of the synagogue is enriched with artistic details and decorations that reflect the cultural richness of the Venetian Jewish community. The ceiling is decorated with geometric motifs, and along the walls run wooden coverings up to the height of the windows, creating a solemn and refined atmosphere. The benches are arranged parallel to the long sides of the room, while the women’s gallery, located above the entrance, has grilles that allow them to witness the ceremonies without being seen. The Great German Synagogue was the first public synagogue erected in the New Ghetto, along with the nearby Canton School, completed in 1532. These structures are witnesses to the influence of the Ashkenazi community in the early years of the Ghetto, before the arrival of Sephardic Jews from Spain and the Levant in the 1550s. The synagogue ceased to be regularly used for worship in 1917, when the local Jewish community was forced to dissolve due to World War I. Today, the building is open to the public thanks to the Jewish Museum of Venice, which organizes guided tours to allow visitors to explore this important historical site. The history of the Great German Synagogue is closely linked to the history of the Venice Ghetto, officially established in 1516. This neighborhood became the center of Jewish life in the Serenissima, hosting communities of different origins, including Ashkenazi, Italian, and Sephardic Jews. Each community built its own synagogue, or “school,” contributing to creating an environment rich in cultural and religious diversity. Over the centuries, the Venetian Jewish community faced numerous challenges, including legal restrictions and periods of discrimination. Despite this, they managed to keep their traditions alive and contribute significantly to the economic and cultural life of Venice. The Great German Synagogue, with its architecture and decorations, is a symbol of this resilience and the adaptability of the Jewish community.