Forgotten stories whisper from these stones. We are standing before a testament to London’s rich Jewish heritage. Today, let’s delve into the history of one of its former prominent synagogues: The Great Synagogue of London.
The Great Synagogue was more than just a place of worship. It stood as the heart of Ashkenazi Jewish life in London for centuries. Imagine London in the 17th century. Following the return of Jews to England, a modest synagogue arose north of Aldgate around 1690 in Duke’s Place.
As the community blossomed, a new edifice became essential. Moses Hart, a businessman and philanthropist, financed this ambitious project. In 1722, the new Great Synagogue was consecrated. It cost about £2,000, equivalent to around £400,000 today. The consecration occurred on Rosh Hashanah, a High Holy Day.
By the late 18th century, the congregation again sought expansion. Judith Levy, daughter of Moses Hart, stepped forward. She donated £4,000, around £640,000 today. James Spiller designed the third Great Synagogue. Its classical style echoed the work of John Adam.
Royal visits marked the synagogue’s significance. The Royal Dukes of Cambridge, Cumberland, and Sussex attended a service in 1809. They sat on Egyptian revival chairs. Writer Leigh Hunt also visited. He admired the “semi-Catholic pomp” and the fine singing. He was also bemused by the congregants wearing hats.
The Great Synagogue also had influential religious leaders. Judah Loeb Cohen served as rabbi in 1696. Aaron Hart then led the congregation for over 50 years. Solomon Hirschell served for nearly 40 years.
The synagogue even had connections to the arts. Myer Lyon, a cantor, also sang opera at Covent Garden. He used the name Michael Leoni. His prayers attracted many non-Jewish visitors. Thomas Olivers adapted Leoni’s rendition of Yigdal into the hymn “The God of Abram Praise.”
Sadly, the Great Synagogue met a tragic end. On May 10, 1941, during the Blitz, it was destroyed. The synagogue was a casualty of World War II. A plaque now marks its location on Duke’s Place.
Though the physical structure is gone, its legacy lives on. The Great Synagogue shaped London’s Jewish community. It fostered religious and cultural identity. Its story serves as a reminder of resilience and faith.