Keszthely Synagogue 1.48

The Keszthely Synagogue is a synagogue in Keszthely, Hungary.The synagogue was originally built in 1852 in the neo-classical style. The shape was altered in 1894 when the building was remodeled in the spirit of eclecticism. In 1898 an organ built by Sándor Országh was installed. The temple served the local Neolog congregation.The building has undergone a number of renovations - in 1930, in 1945 and in 1967. In 1987 part of the ceiling collapsed and as a result planning began in 1991 to fully renovate the building. Full renovation work started in 1993, and the synagogue was reconsecrated on July 7, 1995 in the presence of the President of the Republic Árpád Göncz and the Chief Rabbi Tamás Raj. In 1997 its painted decorations and work on the facade was also completed.The buildingThe building was originally accessed via a narrow mew from Fejér György Street where the Jewish School once stood. Today it is accessed through the archway of Pethő House located on Kossuth Lajos Street #22.The building was erected according to tradition on a lower level as compared to its surroundings. Its East-West length, breadth and height are almost equal. The inside is surrounded on 3 sides by a gallery for women supported by iron columns. The original neo-classical architecture is still preserved on the East side of the synagogue.History of the SiteA building and the surrounding land on which the synagogue now stands had been owned by the Pethő family who acquired it by royal donation in 1427. In 1739 it was purchased by Christopher Festetics. The Pethő House located on Kossuth Lajos Street #22, and through which the synagogue is currently accessed, is the oldest building in Keszthely and is also notable as being the birthplace of composer Károly Goldmark in 1830. Károly Goldmark's father was the cantor at the synagogue.