Hundreds visit a shule for first time

The Great Synagogue welcomed almost 1000 visitors on November 2 as part of the Museums of History NSW’s annual Sydney Open event, including many who had never been inside a shule before.

Renowned as one of Australia’s finest examples of Victorian architecture, the Great Synagogue offered guests a rare opportunity to explore its soaring neo-Gothic arches, intricate stained-glass windows and richly layered history.

Guided tours and interactive displays highlighted the building’s enduring spiritual legacy, and its central role in the story of Jewish life in NSW.

Rabbi Dr Benjamin Elton, the shule’s Chief Minister, said, “It was deeply moving to see so many people from diverse backgrounds walk through our doors with curiosity, respect and wonder.

“The Great Synagogue is not only a place of worship, but a cultural treasure, and we are honoured to share it with the wider community.”