Stadttempel

The Stadttempel is the most important Jewish house of prayer (synagogue) located in Vienna, Austria. This significant building is situated in the First District of Seitenstettengasse 4.

The concept of the design of the synagogue was based on neo-classicistic style and was conceived by the Viennese architect named Joseph Kornhausel. Construction of the synagogue started in 1825 and was completed in 1826. An edict issued by Emperor Joseph II was the reason why Stadttempel is hidden and blocked by houses. This edict states that only worship places for Catholics are allowed to create a direct entry from the street. Coincidentally, the same edict saved the synagogue from overall destruction during the Reichskristallnacht, which happened in November 1938. However, an unexpected and unfortunate event occurred when Arab terrorists threw a hand grenade at the Stadttempel, which caused the death of two people in August of 1981.

At present, Stadttempel remains to be a significant and fundamental temple for the 7,000 members of the Viennese Jewish Community that regularly gather for their worship purposes.