New synagogue located in Berlin, Germany is culturally and historically important building. This structure was begun in 1859 and was completed in 1866. It is said to have been the largest synagogue in Germany and imbued a lot of significance for the Jewish population. New Synagogue like any other has faced different difficulties ranging to it being burnt during World War II. Although it is no longer an active and lively Jewish community it is today a powerful symbol of Jewish history and one’s ability to survive even in adverse conditions.

The Architecture and Design

The New Synagogue is a work of architecture and it has Moorish and Byzantine motifs. It was constructed by Eduard Knoblauch- Friedrich August Stüler whose architecture was characterized by high detailed trims as well as beautification. Red bricks coupled with intricate design on the outer surface of the building contributes to the very astounding external appearance of the building. The piece de resistence of the building is the dome with a gold star above symbolising divine presence.

As any other synagogues around, the New Synagogue was intended both for religious purpose, that is, for prayers, but, at the same time, it was to be a center of community, cultural, and identity in the Berlin.

Historical Significance

It was the New Synagogue which served the purpose of Jewish life of Berlin before the Nazi regime prevailed over Germany. The opening ceremony in 1866 interested many rulers, related, in particular, to Emperor Wilhelm I, who recognized the value and necessity of religious liberty and tolerance.

However, in the Night of the Broken Glass (Kristallnacht) of 1938 the New Synagogue was attacked by the Nazi regime and large portions of the building were burnt down. Only after the fall of the Berlin Wall the building was renovated and became an emblem of revival process.

Safeguarding the Jews Identity

After the Second World War, the New Synagogue has become one of the museums and memorials for the representation of the Jewish history. At present, it is used for its concert, exhibition, and event facilities that bring together issues on interfaith and multiculturalism. The visitors are free to move around the museum to get acquainted with the Jewish history in Berlin, the history of the synagoge and the holocaust.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning to visit the New Synagogue in Berlin, here are a few tips:

It is wise to consult the companies operating hours, and whether they have any restrictions regarding visitors.

One can decide to take a guided tour to ensure one appreciates more about any place of interest.

Respect the history of the place and courteous when around it.

It’s time to consider the capabilities of the Jewish people and the significance of cultural traditions preservation.

The New Synagogue as the Symbol of Hope

New Synagogue thus is a symbol of hope, and strength not only of the Jewish people but also of Berliners as a whole. It forces people to remember practices of religious toleration, acceptance and the need to protect our historical sites. Visiting and learning about New Synagogue and its functions we can draw a conclusion that bad experience should be used to make further steps towards better experience in the future.

In fact, the New Synagogue is a perfectly genuine monument which history should never be allowed to forget. The fact that it was overgrown with vegetation and was eventually transformed into a museum and a center for culture speaks a lot about the resourcefulness of people and the need to preserve history.