Walking along Lexington Avenue, the Central Synagogue stands alone amidst other buildings on the street. With two symmetrical towers topped with turquoise and gold onion domes, an ornate rose window perched high above three large arched wooden doors, Central Synagogue does not resemble the high rises and skyscrapers of NYC. All this is set in a Moorish building that resembles a castle in Budapest more than a synagogue in New York City. But a synagogue it is, and a glorious one.
Home to the congregation Ahawath Chesed, the synagogue was completed in 1872, designed by Henry Fernbach, often considered to be "New York's first prominent Jewish architect." It seats over 1,400 people and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975.
As the oldest synagogue in continuous use in New York City, it may appear that this synagogue has been well-maintained over the years and had the good fortune of aging well. Unfortunately, an accidental fire in 1998 caused massive damage to much of the clerestory level and above; only fragments could be salvaged from the original stained glass windows to be pieced together to reconstruct a window.
Even more intricate than the crenellated stone exterior is the colorful stencil work that covers the walls in 69 colors. The interior painting was restored to its original intensity after the fire, revitalizing the features. The ceiling and the ark are a vibrant cornflower blue, trimmed in terra cotta, green, peach, red and many other hues. To see in person the dramatic effect of this synagogue's interior, come for the free tour on Wednesday afternoons.
Information
- Hours and Tours:
- Wednesday at 12:45pm weekly
- No reservations needed, except for group tours
- Tour Admission:
- Free
- Subway Stop:
- E, V trains to the Lexington Avenue/53rd Street Station
- Contact:
- Location: 652 Lexington Avenue at 55th Street
- Phone: 212-838-5122
- Website: www.centralsynagogue.org
