Leo Frankel Synagogue

Frommer's Review

Still in use today, the Leo Frankel Synagogue is about as bizarre an architectural creation as Budapest has to offer. This seemingly normal apartment building looks no different from its neighbors -- until you notice the Star of David and the menorah carved into its facade. But that's just the beginning: The synagogue, which was built in 1887 and 1888, is lodged inside the building and completely fills the interior courtyard. In 1928 it was surrounded by a six-story apartment house. This was done both to protect the synagogue from anti-Semitic violence and to provide accommodations for 51 Jewish families, including the families of the synagogue's rabbis and cantors. During World War II, Nazi invaders used the synagogue as a stable, rendering it absolutely unusable. Since the 1990 regime change, the synagogue has been restored twice, most recently in 2000.

Insider Tip: The whole scene is best viewed from above; climb the stairs or take the antique elevator to gain perspective. An official tour of the synagogue is available through Chosen Tours.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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