Great Synagogue, Florence

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Toksave

The Great Synagogue of Florence is one of the must-see places in Florence, a striking landmark whose green copper dome rises above the city's rooftops. Built between 1874 and 1882 during the era of Jewish emancipation, it symbolises both freedom and cultural pride for Florence's Jewish community. Its ornate Moorish Revival design and richly decorated interior make it one of the top attractions in Florence for visitors interested in architecture, heritage, and religious history. It is often visited on walking tours of Florence, especially those exploring the lesser-known stories of the city.

With its striped masonry, horseshoe arches, vivid interior motifs, and distinctive dome inspired by Middle Eastern design, the synagogue stands as a striking contrast to Florence's predominantly Renaissance skyline. Inside, every surface glows with colourful patterns, mosaics, and frescoes that reflect Sefardic artistic traditions and the multicultural influences that shaped the Jewish community of Tuscany.

History and Significance of Great Synagogue of Florence

Plans for a new synagogue emerged after 1848, when Jews in the Duchy of Tuscany received full civil rights. But it was the bequest of David Levi, president of the Jewish community, in 1870 that finally made construction possible. The project symbolised the community's freedom and its profound connection to Florence.

Architects Mariano Falcini, Vincenzo Micheli, and Marco Treves created a building that fused Italian forms with Moorish and Sefardic design traditions-styles considered appropriate for a synagogue and reflective of Jewish roots in medieval Spain. Completed in 1882, the synagogue became one of the largest and most beautiful in South-central Europe.

The synagogue also witnessed difficult historical moments. During World War II, Nazi forces occupied the building and attempted to destroy it. It survived, but restoration was needed after the war as well as after the devastating Arno flood of 1966. Today, the synagogue stands as a symbol of resilience, identity, and cultural heritage.

Things to See and Do in Great Synagogue of Florence

Visitors can admire the exterior’s alternating layers of travertine and granite, creating a striped pattern typical of Italian architecture but enhanced with Moorish detail. The three horseshoe-arched portals, together with the onion-domed corner towers and the iconic green dome, make this building instantly recognisable.

Inside, the Moorish influence deepens. Coloured frescoes and geometric motifs decorate the walls, ceilings, and arches. The dome’s interior gleams with patterns that echo Middle Eastern artistry. The mosaics by Giovanni Panti and the great arch by Giacomo del Medico add elegance and symbolism to the sacred space.

The synagogue also houses community spaces, exhibits about Jewish life in Florence, and memorials dedicated to those lost during the Holocaust. Guided tours are often available and provide valuable insight into the synagogue's history, architecture, and ongoing role in the city's cultural life.

How to Get to Great Synagogue of Florence

Florence Airport, Peretola, has tram and taxi connections to the city centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Florence on Booking.com.

For those arriving by train, Santa Maria Novella station is around 20 minutes away on foot or reachable by bus. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Driving is limited due to Florence’s ZTL restrictions; parking outside the centre and walking or taking a taxi is recommended. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Great Synagogue of Florence

• Suggested tips: Dress modestly, as this is an active place of worship.
• Best time to visit: Morning hours for quieter visits and better interior light.
• Entrance fee in Euros: Around €6-€8, often including the museum.
• Opening hours: Closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays; check schedules in advance.
• Official website: Jewish Community of Florence.
• How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Accessibility: Mostly accessible; some areas may have steps.
• Facilities: Restrooms, small museum spaces, gift shop.
• Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the green dome and Florence’s terracotta skyline.
• Guided tours: Regular tours explain symbolism and history.
• Nearby food options: Kosher-friendly choices and many cafés in the Sant’Ambrogio area.

Where to Stay close to Great Synagogue of Florence

For comfort near the historic centre, consider Hotel Regency, offering elegance in a peaceful square. A boutique choice is Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco, close to museums and landmarks. Another nearby stay is Plaza Hotel Lucchesi, offering river views and easy access to the synagogue.

Is Great Synagogue of Florence Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Great Synagogue is a breathtaking example of Moorish Revival architecture and an important monument to Jewish history in Florence. Its artistic richness, peaceful atmosphere, and powerful historical significance make it a compelling stop for anyone exploring the city.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (2,053)

Synagogue and Jewish Museum of Florence on Via Luigi Carlo Farini is a Moorish‑style synagogue notable for its copper cupola, mosaic‑lined interior and a small museum upstairs that interprets the synagogue and the nearby ghetto; visitors praise the vivid, richly colored sanctuary and striking architecture, note a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere, and report attentive staff and security measures including bag checks, while some have been unable to enter during major festivals.

Lisa Ford

a month ago

"Seeing this Synagogue was my first time in my life I entered a Jewish church. I was so intensely moved by the beauty, the history, the colors of thei er sanctuary and the serenity of the space. The pictures I took do not do it justice. The colors used in the ceiling and the adornments were vibrant , almost pulsating. And hardly anyone was there. It was a shock that during services that the women sat above the men in the pews because they are revered by their religion. So unlike my own upbringing and how I have been treated as a female my entire life. During WWII the Nazis used the building for holding weapons and tried to destroy the synagogue as they were losing the war in 1944. Thankfully they were not successful. For anyone wanting to learn more about was Jews have had to endure in history, I highly recommend this self guided tour. I was deeply moved by the synagogue...."

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ori123 ori123

4 months ago

"An amazing place, full of atmosphere and great architecture. Very nice and kind people. Must in Firenze"

Olga Tolmatsky

9 months ago

"Very beautiful, huge synagogue with a museum on the second floor telling the history of synagogue and getto nearby. It was a pleasant surprise tolearn, on the plaque at the entrance to the mechitza, that the armchairs in the mechitza had been restored by the Ferragamo family...."

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FAQs for Visiting Great Synagogue of Florence

Nearby Attractions to Great Synagogue of Florence

• Sant’Ambrogio Market - Lively local food market.
• Basilica di Santa Croce - Florence's “Pantheon of Italian glories.”
• Museo del Bargello - Renowned sculpture museum.
• Piazza della Signoria - Historic political centre.
• Sinagoga e Museo Ebraico - Adjacent Jewish Museum with community history.

The Great Synagogue appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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