Description

The huge orthodox synagogue on Fraenkelufer used to be the centre of orthodox Jewish life in Berlin. While liberal Jews frequented the New Synagogue on Oranienburger Straße, orthodox Jews celebrated the sabbath here from 1913-1938. That was until members of Hitler's SA stormed the building and burnt the torah scrolls. The complex was then confiscated by the Gestapo and used as a garage. Although completely destroyed during a wartime bombing raid, neither the bombs nor the Gestapo succeeded in putting an end to Jewish life on Fraenkelufer. Nowadays, there is a community centre and a smaller synagogue in an adjacent building. On the bank of the canal, one of the most beautiful spots in Berlin, a commemorative plaque recounts the synagogue's turbulent history.